Walvis Bay community unites to mourn, advocate for change
The Walvis Bay community gathered at Independence Beach on Wednesday, 7 August, for a candlelight vigil at the spot where Sheehama Matheus' body (24) was found.
A student from the University of Namibia who was reported missing on 27 July, Matheus' body was discovered washed ashore behind the Navy Base at Independence Beach on Tuesday.
He was last seen at his girlfriend's house in Walvis Bay, where he was allegedly assaulted by several young men. Five suspects were arrested and appeared in court last week. Their case was postponed to 22 August, and they remain in custody.
Tangeni Mujoro from The Blue Project, a branch of the Love in Network Namibia, has called on parents to reflect on the children they are raising. She made these remarks during the vigil. "What are we allowing in our own homes that our children go out into the streets and treat the next human being as if they have no right to exist?" she questioned.
She further stressed that the streets should not be a place of fear due to attacks by young men. It's time to recognise the neglect of adolescent boys and young men, who need urgent help, she said.
"Many of our boys are dropping out of school, becoming apathetic about their futures and committing crimes without remorse, indicating serious moral decay. We must each reflect on how our actions, words and thoughts shape future generations. Adults should bear responsibility for the outcomes of our children," Mujoro added.
Meanwhile, Matheus' cousin Miriam Joel urged community members to speak up against crime. "As a community, we have to stand up for each other and help one another if you see someone being confronted by a gang."
Walvis Bay Rural constituency councillor Florian Donatus encouraged parents to raise their children to be responsible future adults, leaders and parents. "We should raise kids in a way that enables them to be future parents themselves."
A student from the University of Namibia who was reported missing on 27 July, Matheus' body was discovered washed ashore behind the Navy Base at Independence Beach on Tuesday.
He was last seen at his girlfriend's house in Walvis Bay, where he was allegedly assaulted by several young men. Five suspects were arrested and appeared in court last week. Their case was postponed to 22 August, and they remain in custody.
Tangeni Mujoro from The Blue Project, a branch of the Love in Network Namibia, has called on parents to reflect on the children they are raising. She made these remarks during the vigil. "What are we allowing in our own homes that our children go out into the streets and treat the next human being as if they have no right to exist?" she questioned.
She further stressed that the streets should not be a place of fear due to attacks by young men. It's time to recognise the neglect of adolescent boys and young men, who need urgent help, she said.
"Many of our boys are dropping out of school, becoming apathetic about their futures and committing crimes without remorse, indicating serious moral decay. We must each reflect on how our actions, words and thoughts shape future generations. Adults should bear responsibility for the outcomes of our children," Mujoro added.
Meanwhile, Matheus' cousin Miriam Joel urged community members to speak up against crime. "As a community, we have to stand up for each other and help one another if you see someone being confronted by a gang."
Walvis Bay Rural constituency councillor Florian Donatus encouraged parents to raise their children to be responsible future adults, leaders and parents. "We should raise kids in a way that enables them to be future parents themselves."
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