The newly appointed Ohangwena Regional Governor, Sebastian Ndeitunga, has called on Namibians, mainly the youth, to find ways of resolving conflict without resorting to violence to reduce gender-based violence.
Ndeitunga, who was appointed two weeks ago in the position, made this call during his maiden address as governor when he officiated at the regional launch of the Commemoration of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The event was held at Ohaingu village in the Engela Constituency on Tuesday.
"There is no household without misunderstandings, but the bottom line is how we can seek ways to solve the problems we encounter. The youth should also learn to separate fairly when love affairs turn sour without intimidating each other; no one knows what the future holds. Let's not kill each other."
Ndeitunga further called for peace and harmony, urging Namibians to work together and extend support to those subjected to abuse.
"Let's work together to prevail in peace within our hearts; whatever misunderstanding may arise, let's not turn into fights; let's not kill each other. As adults, alcohol should be consumed with caution and responsibly. Let's also adopt the old ways that our forefathers used in the past. Let's respect women's rights and stop abusing them."
In a speech read on her behalf, Ohangwena Police Regional Commander, Commissioner Ottilie Kashuupulwa, stressed that despite laws to combat GBV, there are still factors that are hindering the process of combating it.
"Factors such as shying away from reporting GBV cases and protecting the abuser are disturbing and thus should not be accepted, hence the need to come together and put an end to this practice for the betterment of all in the Ohangwena region. The Ohangwena region is not a safe haven for GBV; therefore, every resident of this region should play their part in the fight against GBV."
According to Ohangwena Nampol statistics, the region has recorded a total of about 647 cases of GBV between December last year and October this year.
Of those figures, 621 cases were GBV, 11 were murders involving domestic violence, and 15 were murders.