Windhoek: Raising awareness and encouraging open conversations are essential to preventing gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide, One Economy Foundation Senior Manager for Communications and Media Paulina Moses has said.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Moses spoke ahead of the foundation's Game Changers Corporate and Family Fun Day set to take place in Windhoek on Saturday. She emphasized that awareness helps people recognize harmful behaviors and promotes respect within homes, relationships, and communities. By creating informed communities, individuals are better equipped to discuss GBV and femicide and foster an environment where those affected by violence can seek support.

The event aims to raise awareness through sports and discussions on GBV, mental health, and wellbeing. Participants in the five-kilometer and ten-kilometer runs will wear T-shirts featuring positive slogans, transforming them into 'moving human billboards' for messages of positivity, healthy choices, and respect.

'At the stadium, we will have mental health conversations, health screening stations, and Barbershop Talks where men can have open and honest conversations in a relaxed environment,' Moses shared. She stressed that the prevention of GBV and femicide should begin early by equipping young people with information and creating spaces for discussions on relationships, mental health, and respect.

Moses highlighted the need for more initiatives across communities that promote accountability and provide strong support for those affected by violence. The services offered at the event will provide a safe and youth-friendly environment where young people can access health information, counseling, and support. Those requiring additional assistance can be referred to appropriate services.

Moses encouraged the public to attend the Game Changers event at the Independence Stadium, which will commence with a run at 06:30, followed by activities such as a corporate relay, Kiddies Zone, health screenings, mental health conversations, and Barbershop Talks.