Hardap Governor Riaan Mcnab has urged the youth to unite against gender-based violence and drug abuse.

McNab used the recent Hardap Governor's Cup in Rehoboth to launch an appeal against such social ills.

The governor stated that if society ignores the suffering caused by gender-based violence, substance abuse, and other social ills, it will deprive the youth of a future. 

"Today, we make it clear, we stand united. United against the pain inflicted behind closed doors, united against addiction that affects so many potential young people. United against the moral decay that divides families and weakens communities. We must be a generation that says, Enough is enough."

Sports have a unifying power across cultures and genders, he said, and provide opportunities to learn the value of teamwork, integrity and fair play.

"A society where violence is replaced by compassion, addiction gives way to ambition, and darkness is driven out by hope. Sports can be a powerful antidote to despair and a catalyst for social change. It is here on this field we are planting seeds of unity, resilience and leadership."

The Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp, noted that gender-based violence is a plague threatening the dignity, safety, and future of communities.

"Sport teaches us discipline, empathy and mutual respect. It empowers young people to reject violence and embrace dialogue. Through community leagues, mentorship and inclusive participation, we are cultivating a generation that says no more. No more silence, no more stigma and no more violence."

The marketing officer of the Southern Stream Football Division is Rhuuksie Garoeb.

"As footballers, as sportspeople, and especially as boys growing up, let's follow the good example of one or two persons who are living a simple life."

 Various youth teams from the Hardap Region participated in the tournament.