OYO launches 16 Days of Activism campaign focusing on digital violence

The Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO) has launched its annual programme for the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence (GBV), placing a particular focus on the rise of online abuse.

The international campaign, observed from 25 November to 10 December, runs under the theme ‘Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls’.

This year’s events, supported by the German embassy, Orange Babies and United Nations Population Fund/Hope Initiative Southern Africa-Namibia, will take place at Okahandja, Usakos, Omaruru, Karibib, Windhoek, Keetmanshoop and Rehoboth.

OYO director Philippe Talavera says the early start was deliberate. “We decided to prepone the first week in order not to interfere with the forthcoming elections,” he says.

The launch was held at the 5 Rand informal settlement at Okahandja yesterday. Highlighting the urgency of the campaign, deputy mayor Akser Aupindi said: “Okahandja made the news regarding gender-based violence. Ingrid Maasdorp was just five years old, Rosalind Fabian six and Beyoncé Kharuxas 15. Gender-based violence is real. It affects us all.”

Germany’s ambassador to Namibia, Thorsten Hutter, echoed the sentiment, noting the global scale of the crisis.

“GBV is not just a problem in Namibia. It’s a worldwide issue, and we must join forces to end it,” he said.

The programme includes a strong educational and artistic component.

The OYO dance troupe will perform works addressing digital abuse, including ‘A Different Me’, which tackles catfishing, and ‘The Party’, centred on the non-consensual posting of sexual videos.

Both pieces feature dancers Desmond Kamerika, Mary-Jane Andreas and Sydney Farao.

Talavera says online violence is becoming increasingly common. “Various young people have shared their experiences with us. We aim at gathering more data during the events to understand the situation on the ground better.”

Other activities include discussions around the ‘Caring Namibian Man’ photo exhibition, screenings of OYO clips ‘Be a Lady’ and ‘Be a Man’, and community conversations linked to the feature film ‘Lukas’.

According to Talavera, the campaign also aims to connect communities with support services. “A counsellor is present as well as the Walvis Bay Corridor Group mobile clinic. People can be tested for HIV-AIDS, have their blood pressure taken or talk to a counsellor for free. We want to bring services to people who need them.”

Aupindi called the initiative a necessary call to action. “This is not just a campaign; it is a powerful reminder that we have a collective duty to end GBV and build a nation where every person can live a life of dignity, safety and equality,” he said.

Hutter said Germany remains committed to supporting community-centred responses.

“Germany supports the 16 Days of Activism by funding OYO. OYO has been at the forefront of fighting GBV through performances, exhibitions and inter-generational discussions. Gender-based violence is unacceptable, and I’m proud the embassy is able to support OYO’s exceptional work.”

Talavera adds that the timing of the campaign was critical ahead of the festive season.

“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 is of paramount importance.”

Aupindi urged the inclusion of boys and men in prevention efforts. “One of the most critical solutions is engaging men and boys as allies. Gender equality is not a women’s issue; it is a societal issue.”

All events are free to attend.

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