By Tuwilika Nafuka
Namibia is grappling with a persistent sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) crisis. While the lack of a functional data system to accurately collect and analyze SGBV cases remains a challenge, the troubling rise in reported incidents over the past five years paints an unmistakable picture of a nation struggling with systemic issues.
As we conclude the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on December 10, coinciding with National Women’s Day in Namibia, it is clear that combating this crisis requires a united effort from every sector of society. Corporate Namibia, in particular, has a vital role to play in driving meaningful change.
This year, Namibia reached a historic milestone with the election of its First Women President, Vice- President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Her leadership brings renewed optimism for advancing gender equality and addressing systemic challenges. There is immense potential to fast-track critical reforms, such as establishing the long-awaited National Sex Offenders Register, part of the Harambee Prosperity Plan and abolishing apartheid-era laws like the Abortion and Sterilization Act of 1975, to promote bodily autonomy and empower women. These reforms are crucial in tackling some of the root causes of Namibia’s SGBV crisis.
At TupaBloom Care, several of our team members recently participated in the GBV Prevention in the Workplace Awareness Program, a joint initiative of the GIZ Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry and AHK Ecuador. Through this training, our staff gained critical knowledge about Namibia’s GBV laws and practical strategies to create safer workspaces. Companies whose employees completed the course were certified as violence-free workplaces. While we are proud of our employees’ individual certifications, we are inspired by organizations that achieved this collective milestone, demonstrating their commitment to creating safe and equitable environments for all.
Through this experience, we learned that prevention is not just a policy, it is a responsibility. Corporate Namibia has the power to influence societal norms by fostering zero-tolerance cultures for violence and discrimination. I urge more companies to participate in future program intakes and make the workplace a frontline for change.
While corporate engagement is essential, we must also recognize the long-term value of early intervention through education. Programs like those offered to companies should be adapted for schools. Teaching young people about gender equality, consent, and healthy relationships can help dismantle harmful norms before they take root. Extending and rigorously implementing Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in Namibian schools is not just a preventative measure, it is an investment in a generation of leaders who will champion gender justice.
Ending SGBV requires a collaborative approach from government leading with accountability mechanisms and corporations modeling safe, equitable environments while supporting advocacy and social initiatives. Currently the eight government-funded GBV shelters in Namibia remain unable to meet the needs of victims. These are the types of social projects that Corporate Namibia could help fund to provide safe havens for survivors and contribute to long-term recovery.
National Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience and achievements of Namibian women, but it is also a moment for reflection. As a nation, we must commit to creating a future where every woman, girl, and individual is free from violence, discrimination, and fear.
The 16 Days of Activism reminds us that the fight against SGBV does not end with a campaign, it continues every day. By adopting violence-free practices, supporting educational initiatives, and advocating for policy reform, businesses can be powerful allies in transforming our society.
This is a historic moment for Namibia, marked by new leadership and sharp collective awareness. Let us seize this opportunity to commit to meaningful action to build a Namibia free from violence, where every individual’s rights, safety, and autonomy are upheld.
*Tuwilika Nafuka is an innovative STEM medical professional, Social Justice Activist and Digital Health Transformation champion, passionate about leveraging technology to revolutionize healthcare systems.
