WINDHOEK: Laura McLeod-Katjirua, the Governor of the Khomas Region, has called on the men of Namibia to actively participate in initiatives that address behavioral issues and combat gender-based violence (GBV). This appeal was made in her statement on Sunday to commemorate International Human Rights Day.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), McLeod-Katjirua encouraged male participation in events such as the men’s conferences held recently at Keetmanshoop and Ondangwa. These events, organized by the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Justice, attracted over 1,000 attendees at each location and focused on topics such as suicide, mental health, and gender-related laws. According to McLeod-Katjirua, these gatherings provide a safe space for men to share their experiences and engage in discussions on pertinent issues.

The Governor emphasized the importance of these events in promoting behavioral change and addressing the GBV landscape in Namibia. She highlighted that men and boys are also victims of GBV, particularly psychological violence, which constitutes a violation of human rights.

During the commemoration at the Old Location Cemetery in Windhoek, McLeod-Katjirua remarked that International Human Rights Day is an opportunity to increase awareness about human rights, advocate for gender equality, and advance justice. She stated, “The commemoration of Human Rights Day calls for global action to increase awareness, galvanise advocacy efforts, and share knowledge and innovations to help end all forms of violence against women and girls.”

The governor also noted the significance of Namibia Women’s Day, which coincides with Human Rights Day on December 10, honoring the women who opposed forced relocation by the South African colonial administration in 1959. She stressed that Namibian women play crucial roles in various sectors, including politics, education, and socio-economic activities.

Observed under the theme ‘Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All’, this year’s Human Rights Day called for respect for the dignity and freedom of all individuals and a collective effort to prevent any form of human rights violation, particularly against children.