Marythar Kambinda
Katima Mulilo – Empowering women and the girl-child holds many benefits for society because of its trickle-down effect on the other members of society.
Doreen Sioka, Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare stated in a speech read on her behalf by Judea Lyaboloma constituency councillor Humphrey Divai that International Women’s Day celebrates the role and contributions that women from all walks of life have made towards the socio-economic development of the country.
‘Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow’ was the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, which was celebrated on 10 March 2022 at Sangwali in the Zambezi region. The event brought together women from all walks of life.
“The theme for this year recognises the accomplishments of women all over the world, who are leading the charge in climate change adaptation, mitigation and response to ensure a more sustainable future for all,” said Sioka.
The deputy commissioner of police in Zambezi, Magdalena Garises, agreed with the minister by stating that it is important to build women as it helps build a nation.
Garises said 100 years ago, some voices started to rise and asked questions such as what it is that women are good for. “Are we only good for bearing children, for satisfying our men, or are we only good for cleaning and preparing clothes and food?,” she asked rhetorically.
“We as women can bring a lot of change within our homes or places of work, as well as within the communities that we serve,” she noted.
She further highlighted how most children, especially girls, are looking at older women.
“I had seen the glitter in some of the girls’ eyes when they saw me getting out of that vehicle. I know that most of them would one day love to wear the uniform that I have on,” Garises stated.
“It has taken me 29 years of dedication in the police force to be where I am today, and I am not intending to stop here. I intend to proceed”, she added.
Divai, for his part, added that since the day was about celebrating women, it would make more sense if it is run by women next year, as men will always be there to offer their support.
“It is usually not easy for a man to come out and state facts about what men put women through on a particular day like today, in which we are celebrating women’s day, knowing very well that we are the perpetrators. So, I am glad that there are women here who have shared their sentiments on the matter,” said Divai.
Mulela Mutwamezi, representing Sangwali women, also shared her views by stating how there were years when women’s rights were swept under the carpet.
“It was even regarded as a taboo to talk about the rights of women,” she said.
“Women have been colonised, even in their own homes.
Domestic violence is on the rampage as the raping of women and children has reached alarming rates, while the butchering of women by those who claim to love them is beyond human comprehension,” she stated.
“As women, I believe we must be given equal opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the future of this country. I strongly believe that women can have a positive impact towards sustainable development and a better tomorrow for all Namibians and beyond,” Mutwamezi observed.
“I would like to call upon the international community to take women’s issues seriously. Many women have succumbed to death during labour while giving life. Other women have given birth through Caesarean sections, and face serious complications thereafter”, she continued.
She then urged men to start treating women with love and dignity.