Katima mulilo: Gender Equality and Child Welfare Minister, Dr Emma Kantema, stated that although technology is a powerful tool for empowerment, it has become a new frontier for violence that manifests in various forms.
According to Namibia Press Agency, these forms of violence include cyberbullying, online harassment, the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, and gendered hate speech, all of which have societal consequences. Dr Kantema made these remarks in Katima Mulilo during the commemoration of International Human Rights Day, which coincides with Namibian Women’s Day.
Dr Kantema emphasized that these acts extend beyond cyberspace, having real-world impacts that affect mental health, silence voices, and prevent women and girls from fully participating in public life. Namibia has not been spared these challenges, with recent reports indicating a rise in online abuse, particularly targeting young women, including schoolgirls and female professionals.
The Minister underscored the significant psychological toll and the inadequacy of legal and institutional responses. She advocated for decisive and collective national action to ensure that digital spaces embody the values of freedom, equality, and respect for human dignity, as detailed in the Constitution. She reiterated that digital rights, often violated in Namibia, are human rights and should be protected with the same urgency as any other fundamental freedom.
Highlighting statistics, Dr Kantema noted that 4,405 Gender Based Violence (GBV) cases were recorded between April 2024 and February 2025. This includes a recent incident in Katima Mulilo’s Chitto location, where 33-year-old Rachel Simasiku was reportedly killed by her husband. Dr Kantema called upon the nation to unite against such injustices and strongly condemn all GBV-related crimes.
Dr Kantema urged schools, families, and institutions to collaborate in equipping learners to navigate digital spaces responsibly. She also called for stronger legislation, improved reporting mechanisms, and accountability for perpetrators under the rule of law.
Newly sworn-in Katima Mulilo Mayor, Kabende Kabende, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, urging continued efforts in the fight against GBV as the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV concludes. This global campaign aims to raise awareness and demand action to end violence against women and girls.