One Economy advocates tackling social issues amid Okahandja murders

In a statement addressing the Usakos and Okahandja murders, the One Economy Foundation called for urgent, coordinated action focused on the drivers behind gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide.

“Survivors and their families need accessible and sustained support, but to disrupt its cycles, we must also understand the social and psychological factors that fuel GBV and femicide,” the statement reads.

The foundation highlights substance abuse, normalised aggression, and intergenerational trauma as significant drivers of this violence.

“One of the most heartbreaking and overlooked realities is how often families and communities protect perpetrators, whether out of fear, shame, or misguided loyalty. This silence allows violence to continue unchecked. We must break the cycle of complicity,” says Pefimbo Shipunda, the foundation’s senior social worker

“Being an active bystander who speaks up, reports abuse, and supports survivors is not just courageous; it is necessary. It’s time to hold each other accountable and choose the side of justice, healing, and truth. No one should be protected at the cost of someone else’s safety or life,” she adds.

The One Economy Foundation expressed their deepest condolences to the families and communities affected.

The One Economy Foundation is a social welfare organisation focused on responding to community needs to create pathways to equality.

They urge anyone in need of psychosocial and mental health support to visit their #BeFree Youth Campus.

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