CELEBRATING THE 16-DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN WINDHOEK AND OKAHANDJA
‘What I will see as violence, the other culture sees as belief.’ Since end 2021, OYO has developed tools to help young people understand constructs around masculinity and femininity and reflect on how GBV affect them. They include the photo exhibition ‘the caring Namibian man’ and dance pieces such as ‘The Moirai’ and ‘Neville’.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. Started in 1991, it is celebrate yearly worldwide.
This year, the Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO) in collaboration with the British High Commission organised a series of events in Rehoboth (03 December), Okahandja (04 December), Windhoek Oshitenda (05 December) and Windhoek Havana (06 December).
Those were days full of edutainment: the OYO dance troupe performed, ‘the caring Namibian man’ photo exhibition was presented, the clips ‘be a lady’ and ‘be a man’ and OYO feature film ‘Lukas’ were screened. A counselor was present as well as mobile clinics to provide support to people in need.
Dr Talavera, OYO’s director, said “it is extremely important in Namibia to reinforce messages before the festive season. We know that unfortunately the December holidays are not festive for all. People drink more, party more and unfortunately at times abuse each other more. Starting December with a message of hope and ensuring people know what services are available to them, should they need them, is of paramount importance. Reaching people in communities is the key to success, and we are thankful for this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of many.”
High Commissioner H.E. Charles Moore added “Gender-Based Violence is one of the biggest challenges faced by society today, not just in Namibia but around the world. But GBV is preventable: together we can stop it, by raising awareness, changing (and challenging) attitudes, removing the stigma, supporting GBV victims, educating our youth at an early age, and committing instead to “Gender-Based Respect”. A small change can make a big difference, and the British High Commission is proud to support these activities. We are delighted to partner with OYO to get these important messages across.”
An official event took place on 05 December in Oshitenda (Olupale), between 1 and 2pm. H.E the British High Commissioner and distinguished guests delivered keynote speeches and encouraged participants to learn from the activities presented.
Entrance to the event is free of charge and everybody is welcome.
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