YOUNG OBSERVER | Young Namibians urged to break cycle of GBV

Patience Makwele

Young Namibians have been urged to confront gender-based violence (GBV), challenge harmful social norms and prioritise mental wellbeing as the country continues to grapple with high levels of abuse and violence against women and children.

Through her work with advocacy organisation Victims 2 Survivors, Namibian activist and educator Lizette Feris says many forms of abuse are rooted in unresolved trauma and unhealthy attitudes that are often passed from one generation to another.

“Generational trauma has affected millions of Namibians,” Feris said. “If we can help children manage emotions early, the ripple effects can transform families and communities.”

Feris, who has worked with survivors of GBV and child abuse for more than a decade, said ending violence requires more than responding to cases after they occur.

“We need to teach our little ones while they are still young about right and wrong so they are not easily manipulated,” she said. “If we address trauma early, we can break the cycle before it spreads to another generation.”