Keetmanshoop: A total of 4,405 cases of gender-based violence (GBV) were reported in Namibia between April 2024 and February 2025, as revealed by Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Emma Kantema. Kantema disclosed these statistics during the launch of the 2025 National 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence at the J. Stephanus Stadium in Keetmanshoop, which is themed 'Unite to end digital violence against all women and girls.'
According to Namibia Press Agency, the launch signifies the start of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, observed annually from 25 November to 10 December, with the objective of eradicating violence against women and girls. Kantema pointed out that the under-reporting of GBV cases continues to be a significant problem due to the stigma and fear associated with such incidents, urging the community to stand together in reporting both physical and digital violence.
She addressed the rising concern of digital harassment, which is growing at a rapid pace. This includes cyberbullying, exploitation, and the non-consensual dissemination of personal information. Kantema referenced Unicef's 'Disrupting Harm Report', which indicates that a significant portion of Namibia's youth are vulnerable online, with approximately 9 percent of internet-using children aged 12-17 facing online sexual exploitation.
Kantema called upon Namibians to actively report abuse, challenge detrimental norms, and commit to fostering safe environments both at home and online, stressing that efforts to combat GBV must extend beyond the 16-day campaign. The public is encouraged to report any GBV incidents via the toll-free numbers 106/116 and 10111.
Additionally, it was announced that the government is considering amendments to the Combating of Domestic Violence Act and the Combating of Rape Act to include provisions addressing cyberbullying and other forms of online violence. The Domestic Violence Act currently addresses physical, sexual, economic, and psychological violence in domestic relationships, while the Rape Act specifically targets sexual assault.