NAMIBIA: Pohamba Deplores Violence Against Women in 2010

Date: 
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Source: 
allAfrica
Countries: 
Africa
Southern Africa
Namibia
PeaceWomen Consolidated Themes: 
Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

President Hifikepunye Pohamba has expressed grave concern about the escalating incidence of violent crime against vulnerable members of society.

In his New Year's message Pohamba lashed out at domestic and gender-based violence, especially those violent crimes committed against women, children and the elderly.

Pohamba said he condemned, in the strongest possible terms, all the violent acts that rocked the nation in 2010.

Some of the most prominent cases of violence against women and children recorded in the country in 2010 included the rape and murder of 18-year-old Magdalena Stoffels in Windhoek in July, the rape and murder of four-year-old Queen Dausab at Keetmanshoop, the murder of 19-year-old Sarah Heita, a schoolgirl from Uukule Senior Secondary School, and the rape and murder of Thobella Loretta Somi at the zinc-mining town of Rosh Pinah in the Karas Region in November last year.

"As Namibians, we must stand together and declare with one voice that these crimes and crimes of any other kind have no place in our society. I urge the law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in pursuing the culprits who attack helpless women, children and elderly," he said.

The Head of State urged the Namibian youth to stay away from alcohol abuse, irresponsible sexual behaviour and from getting involved in criminal activities.

He said the youth must, instead, focus on constructive activities that will enhance the development of society.

President Pohamba wished everyone success in their endeavours this year.