1 100 GBV cases recorded in Ohangwena, Oshikoto

Deputy gender equality and child welfare minister Linda Mbwale has called on police officers to handle reports of gender-based violence (GBV) with professionalism, urgency and compassion.

She was speaking at the official launch of a GBV awareness campaign in Omuthiya, Oshikoto region, last week.

Mbwale stressed the importance of treating victims and survivors with dignity and respect, saying all cases must be thoroughly investigated.

"Evidence must be properly managed, and the criminal justice process must be upheld to ensure that offenders are held accountable," she said.

Her comments come as new figures released by the police show that Ohangwena and Oshikoto recorded some of the highest GBV statistics in the country for the 2025/2026 financial year.

Ohangwena recorded 654 GBV-related cases, the highest in the country. Common assault (200 cases), rape (197) and grievous bodily harm (153) accounted for 84.1% of the region's GBV incidents.

Oshikoto recorded 448 GBV-related cases, with rape the leading offence at 189 cases, followed by common assault (164) and grievous bodily harm (59), making up 92% of the region's total.

Both regions also recorded five GBV-related murders.

“We must cultivate a generation of men who understand that true strength is not displayed through violence. Authentic strength is shown through responsibility, respect, self-control and the protection of vulnerable individuals,” Mbwale said.

“To every woman, child, and man who has experienced gender-based violence, let me make this clear: You are not alone. You are not to blame. Your voice matters, and your life has immeasurable value. Please do not suffer in silence – seek help and confide in someone you trust,” Mbwale encouraged.

The deputy minister also called on traditional leaders, communities and wider organisations to take proactive measures at the community level. “Neighbours who witness violence must not dismiss it as a family matter. Community leaders aware of normalised violence cannot turn a blind eye,” she said.

She said GBV is a challenge that requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.

“To create a Namibia where everyone can live free from violence, intimidation, abuse and discrimination, we must enhance coordination among government institutions. This way, victims won’t have to navigate a fragmented system alone.”

Vulnerable young

Acting inspector general of the police, Major General Anne-Marie Nainda, raised concerns regarding concealment of birth cases, noting that Khomas led with 23 reported cases, followed by Oshikoto with nine, and Ohangwena with three.

She reminded the public that newborns can be securely surrendered to the police or the gender ministry without fear of arrest.

She also cautioned parents to safeguard their children both online and offline, highlighting the dangers of grooming and exploitation. “A child does not need to be physically touched to experience harm. Communicate with your children, listen to them, and report any suspected exploitation,” Nainda advised.

"Being a man does not equate to being violent. True strength is rooted in respect, responsibility, and dignity. Men and boys must play a pivotal role in the solution by rejecting violence, embracing consent, and choosing to protect rather than harm," she said.

The campaign will also address issues related to human trafficking and substance abuse, which Nainda indicated are significant contributors to various forms of crime and violence.