Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ellen Alberts
Published on 2024-04-11 17:00:00
In the midst of a disturbing trend of violence resulting in the alleged deaths of four women in crimes of passion, traditional leaders are emphasizing the importance of young people staying connected to their traditional beliefs, norms, and culture. These values are founded on principles of love, respect, and care for one another, creating harmony in society, especially in relationships, and helping to curb gender-based violence (GBV). Psychologists attribute GBV to “narcissistic and patriarchal beliefs”, while the government urges Namibians to avoid violent and unstable relationships.
Frans Enkali, a spokesperson for the Ondonga Traditional Authority, expressed concern over the prevalence of violence in society and called on young couples to return to their cultural roots. He emphasized that traditional practices promote harmony and discourage violence in communities. Psychologist Sean Whittaker highlighted the negative impact of patriarchy, which often leads to men exerting dominance over women, contributing to conflicts and tension within households.
Annemarie Plaatjies, a councillor from the Blouwes Traditional Authority, stressed the need for improved access to marital counseling and highlighted the societal pressure on women to stay in abusive relationships due to the perception of marriage as a sacred union. She also pointed out the dangers of prolonged abuse, leading to tragic outcomes, and emphasized the importance of breaking away from patriarchal norms that condone violence.
Traditional leaders like Fabian Silishebo from the Masubia Traditional Authority advocated for empowering traditional authorities with resources to conduct extensive awareness campaigns in their communities. By raising awareness and providing training for leaders, they can better address sensitive issues like GBV and create a safe environment for victims to seek help.
Issues such as drugs, alcohol, and jealousy were identified as common triggers for abusive behavior. Silishebo advised perpetrators to refrain from using these factors as excuses for violence and encouraged both men and women to seek help and report abuse promptly to prevent further harm.
The impact of GBV on society was highlighted by Johannes Ndundu, a spokesperson for the Uukwaluudhi Traditional Authority, who emphasized the need to address the mental, physical, and reproductive health implications of violence against women. Poverty was identified as a major contributing factor to GBV, as financial insecurity often leads individuals to engage in harmful relationships for survival.
Uapimbi Ngareja, a traditional leader from the Ovaherero Traditional Authority, discussed the sense of entitlement some men feel after paying lobola and the importance of parental involvement in traditional marriage arrangements. He also noted the role of money in escalating conflicts between partners, urging individuals to handle break-ups with maturity and respect.
Chief Ndilimani Iipumbu from the Uukwambi Traditional Authority condemned the high levels of violence against women and children and stressed the importance of reporting perpetrators to prevent further harm. Gender equality minister Doreen Sioka called for community engagement in combatting GBV and educating the public on the consequences of violent behavior.
Social activists and religious leaders echoed the need for individuals to seek help and support when facing abusive relationships, emphasizing the importance of recognizing warning signs and taking action to prevent tragedy. Bishop Lukas Katenda urged couples to address behavioral changes in their partners and seek assistance before conflicts escalate.
Overall, the message from traditional leaders, psychologists, government officials, and community members is clear: violence has no place in society, and everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and respectful environment for all individuals. It is essential to raise awareness, empower individuals to seek help, and challenge harmful norms and behaviors to prevent further incidents of gender-based violence.
Read the original article on The Namibian
