The culpability of men in gender-based violence and their role in its alleviation: The case of Oshakati town, Oshana region, Namibia

Gender-based violence remains highly prevalent in Namibia, with high incidences reflected in the national crime statistics. This study investigated the moral culpability of men in gender-based violence and their role in its alleviation in Oshakati, Oshana region, Namibia. A case study research design was utilised, based on a qualitative research approach. Twenty-three participants were purposively selected for the study, and one-on-one semi-structured, in-depth interviews were used to collect the data. The collected data were thematically analysed. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis, namely, effects of GBV, moral culpability of men in GBV and mitigating GBV. The study concluded that the general population understands GBV, the types of GBV and its effects. Women, younger women in particular, are more vulnerable to GBV. GBV is propelled by the assertion of male dominion, which could be informed by cultural practices that promote a gender hierarchy. Although, women report GBV cases to the authorities, there are instances of coercion from both their family and their partners’ family for the cases to be dropped. Moreover, men are more likely to commit GBV due to alcohol and drugs abuse. While men are culpable in the perpetration of GBV, there are indications that they can also contribute to its mitigation through education and enrolment in support groups

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Namibia

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Iipinge, Irya K.T.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Omomowo, Kolawole E.

• Gender
• Gender hierarchy
• Moral culpability
• Patriarchy
• Intersectionality
• Namibia
• University of Namibia

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11070/4237

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.unam.edu.na:11070/4237