19th March 2026
Namibia has a comparatively strong legal framework to address rape, domestic violence, child protection, and workplace harassment. However, persistent gaps in enforcement, limited resources, and challenges in rural access continue to undermine the effectiveness of these laws. Strengthening implementation, enhancing survivor services, and improving justice pathways remain essential.
Key recommendations:
- Increase funding for GBV prevention and response, including shelters, investigative capacity of police and prosecutors, and specialised units in rural regions.
- Improve prosecution and conviction rates through enhanced training for police, prosecutors, and judicial officers on survivor-centred approaches.
- Ensure consistent enforcement of protection orders under the Domestic Violence Act, with clear accountability for non-compliance.
- Expand access to justice in remote areas, including by strengthening Women and Child Protection Units and mobile service delivery.
- Accelerate the enforcement and implementation of pending legislation, such as the Marriage Act 2024, to strengthen protections against child marriage.
- Enhance public awareness campaigns to address stigma, promote reporting, and challenge social norms that enable GBV.