The Hardap Region in Namibia has been plunged into mourning following the brutal killing of 34-year-old Valery Rooi. She was allegedly stabbed to death during the early hours of Saturday, 31st October, at Plot 11 in the Mariental district. The incident occurred after an argument with her boyfriend, 32-year-old Jackson Arikumbi, over a disagreement on purchasing alcohol.
According to police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi, the incident occurred between 03:30 and 06:50 after the couple had allegedly been consuming alcohol with friends. Rooi's body was discovered lying outside the suspect's room by his employer at approximately 06:50. She had sustained multiple stab wounds. Police found a knife believed to have been used in the killing and damaged cellphones at the scene.
Arikumbi allegedly fled following the incident and remains at large. Police have confirmed that a warrant of arrest has been issued in connection with the murder, read together with the provisions of the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, 2003. The killing has prompted strong reactions from regional and local leadership, with Hardap governor Riaan McNab expressing concern over the continued loss of women and children through acts of gender-based violence.
Governor McNab extended condolences to Rooi's family and other families who have lost loved ones to gender-based violence. He condemned the brutal and senseless killings targeting women and children, describing them as deeply disturbing and a serious concern for communities and society at large. McNab called on communities, families, institutions, and other stakeholders to take a united stand against violence against women and children.
McNab also appealed to law enforcement agencies and the Judiciary to exercise their respective mandates with urgency and firmness in ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence are brought to justice and that victims and vulnerable members of society are protected. He stressed that cases involving brutal acts of violence should be handled with the seriousness they deserve, without unnecessary delays.
Mariental councillor William Minnie described Rooi's death as a devastating loss for the community. He said no woman should have to fear for her life at the hands of someone who claims to love her. Minnie extended condolences to Rooi's family, friends, and everyone who knew her, and called on residents and leaders to confront gender-based violence with greater urgency.
The Office of the Governor announced that it would soon communicate a date for a United Prayer Day for the Hardap Region. The initiative aims to bring residents together in prayer, unity, and a renewed commitment to restoring peace within communities. Governor McNab emphasized that collective action against gender-based violence remains necessary to prevent further loss of life.
Key points
- The killing of Valery Rooi has reignited concerns over gender-based violence in the Hardap Region of Namibia.
- The Hardap Region governor and local leaders have called for urgent action to address gender-based violence and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.
- A United Prayer Day is planned for the Hardap Region to promote unity and a commitment to restoring peace within communities.
Reporting sources
- Mariental mourns Valery Rooi · Windhoek Observer
