The government has reiterated its call for a multi-sectoral approach to tackling Gender-Based Violence.

The Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare, Doreen Sioka addressed a belated International Human Rights Day and Women's Day commemoration at Keetmanshoop. 

In a message delivered on her behalf by ||Kharas Governor, Aletha Frederick, Sioka paid tribute to Namibian women, who sacrificed their lives in resistance to forced removals from the Old Location to Katutura, by South African apartheid forces on 10 December 1959. 

"This is a period of the campaign, and beyond Namibia aligns herself and adopts the UN international theme of for the 16 days of activism against GBV, which reads and I quote: 'Unite Activism to End Violence against Women and Girls". This theme calls on all of us women, men, girls, and boys to unite in the fight against GBV, the theme implores on government, civic society, non-governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, the private sector, and all members of society  to employ a multi-sectoral approach to end violence against women and girls."

Sioka revealed that her ministry is currently conducting a study to establish the causes of GBV on the country's economy. 

Also speaking at the occasion were Keetmanshoop Mayor, McDonald Hanse and Junior Mayor, Chantel Van Wyk. 

Keetmanshoop Mayor, McDonald Hanse said, the Namibian government has several measures in place to strengthen policies and legal environment to deal with GBV, where these efforts often fall short at implementation, and that is where we as individuals and the private sector needs to strengthen the government's hand."

Keetmanshoop Junior Mayor, Chantel Van Wyk said, GBV is not only a serious public health concern but also hinders the social-economic development of the country:

Police Chief Inspector, Engelhard !Aocahmub, representing the ||Kharas Police Regional Commander, says Gender Based Violence crimes remain a cause for concern in the region. 

He says four rape cases were reported to police in the region, during the current quarter of 2022. 

He called on the public to unite with police in an effort to put a stop to GBV.