Windhoek: A study on Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBV-F) found that cultural norms and economic hardships continue to fuel violence despite awareness campaigns and legal reforms, for both perpetrators and survivors. The study conducted by the One Economy Foundation and the Namibian Correctional Services was aimed at understanding the driving forces behind violence against women and children to establish appropriate prevention methods.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the foundation's Director of Health and Wellness, Dr Veronica Theron, discussed the findings during the launch of the second volume of the 'Problematic Mindsets' research report. The research engaged survivors, perpetrators, and service providers across four regions and five correctional facilities to understand the driving force and patterns of GBV-F and develop effective prevention strategies.

Dr Theron highlighted that ongoing legal reforms and public awareness campaigns in Namibia have not been enough to break the cycle of violence. Many survivors and perpetrators remain trapped due to cultural norms, institutional gaps, emotional trauma, and economic hardships. The study's results aim to provide a holistic understanding of the psychological and economic dimensions, enhancing support for frontline service providers, survivors, and perpetrators.

Dr Theron emphasised the need for multisectoral trauma-informed approaches, prioritising prevention over response. She advocated for early intervention, early detection, rehabilitation, survivor-centred support services, and stronger legal enforcement to effectively break the cycles of violence.