Deputy Minister Urges Men to Combat Gender-Based Violence at Khorixas Conference

OPUWO — Bernadette Jagger, Deputy Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare, has called on men to play an active role in tackling gender-based violence (GBV) in their communities. She emphasized the need for men to speak against detrimental behaviors and serve as role models.

According to a new release by the Namibian Press Agency, violence against various demographics, including children and the elderly, remains a significant issue in Namibia, particularly in the Kunene Region.

Jagger cited statistics from the Prioritised Plan of Action on Gender-Based Violence, stating that 93 percent of GBV perpetrators are men. “This is why conferences of this nature are very important so that men can be encouraged to be agents of change and take action to address GBV in their communities,” she said.

The Deputy Minister highlighted the far-reaching consequences of GBV, affecting not just the victims but also the perpetrators. She stated that GBV compromises women’s dignity, health, security, and safety.

She identified underlying societal norms and attitudes, such as unequal power dynamics between genders and underage marriages, as contributing factors to the prevalence of GBV. “Norms like ‘boys do not cry and should be strong’ may contribute to GBV,” she noted.

Moreover, Jagger spoke about the role of poverty in perpetuating the cycle of violence. She indicated that financial constraints often make it difficult for individuals to break away from an abusive relationship, hindering access to proper support services.

She urged traditional authorities, particularly male leaders, to act as change agents and role models in their communities in the fight against GBV. During the same conference, Damara king Gaob Justus /Uruhe //Garoeb also encouraged men to abandon harmful behaviors towards their partners and children, emphasizing that collaboration among men and boys is essential for eradicating GBV.