Two more entities join MTC KO project

STANDARD Bank Namibia and the Social Security Commission on Tuesday became the latest Namibian companies to add their weight behind the MTC Knockout Project.

Both companies donated N$50 000 to the cause as well as endorsing boxers of their choice for the event which will take place at the Windhoek Country Club on Saturday evening.

Standard Bank are backing musician Mappz Kapofi, who will take on radio presenter Mufaro Nasengano, while the Social Security Commission has endorsed Namibian musician and radio presenter Jossy Joss, who will take on NBC TV news presenter Theo Ishuna.

At a press conference yesterday, Standard Bank’s public relations manager, Isack Hamata, said it was a national obligation to participate in the fight against gender-based violence, as Namibian women and girls are held hostage by fear of the people who are supposed to protect them.

“We should raise our voices on all available platforms and in all manner possible until the message reaches the perpetrators, until we change our attitude and our behaviour towards our girls, until we have peace in this country where we celebrate equality between men and women,” he said.

He added that the celebrities who will be in action on Saturday should make it their responsibility to draw attention to the fight against GBV.

“Young Namibians follow, listen and imitate what celebrities and influencers say and do. You must use your status in society to drive positive change and behaviour. Use social media and public platforms to stamp out these social vices,” he said.

He added that Standard Bank Namibia had joined forces with the powerful global United Nations movement, HeforShe, which invites men and women to stand in solidarity for gender equality.

“Gender equality is a fundamental human right and Standard Bank has committed to help create a gender equal world,” he said.

“It is crucially important that we create an enabling environment, free from bias, in which women and girls are able to advance and succeed on the basis of merit and ability. The fight against gender-based violence must be a fight by men and boys on behalf of our women and for the benefit of all Namibians,” he added.

Unomengi Kauapirura of the Social Security Commission said they were committed to play a role in this campaign.

“For every woman killed out there we cry and we are ready and willing to help rid us of this evil in our society,” she said.

“Let us contribute to this great cause and continue to amplify the conversation,” she added.

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