As a nation, we have witnessed significant strides in promoting the rights and well-being of the girl child. These efforts have been essential in addressing the historical injustices that have long marginalised our daughters, and we must continue to champion these causes with unwavering commitment. 

However, in our rightful focus on empowering the girl child, we must also ensure that the boy child does not fall by the wayside.

The challenges facing boys today are real and deserve our attention. As a society, we must recognise that the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of boys is just as important as that of girls. 

Boys, like girls, are navigating a world that can be challenging and often unforgiving. They, too, face pressures that can hinder their development and limit their potential.

It is time for us to embrace a balanced approach – one that gives equal weight to the needs of both boys and girls. This 50/50 focus is not about taking away from the progress we have made for our daughters; rather, it is about ensuring that our sons are equally supported and empowered. Both boys and girls must be given the tools they need to succeed, and grow into healthy, confident, and capable adults.

We must start by addressing the emotional challenges faced by boys. Traditionally, boys have been conditioned to hide their emotions, to be strong, and to suppress vulnerability. 

This cultural expectation has led to a situation where many boys feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported. The consequences of this emotional neglect can be severe, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicide among young men.

In addition to emotional challenges, boys also face significant mental health issues. The pressure to conform to traditional notions of masculinity can lead to a range of mental health problems. Boys who feel they do not fit these moulds may struggle with low self-esteem, identity crises, and a sense of inadequacy. It is crucial that we provide boys with the support they need to navigate these challenges.

Physically, boys are often expected to be tough, and to engage in activities that demonstrate strength and endurance. While physical activity is important, this expectation can sometimes push boys into harmful behaviours. 

We must encourage boys to take care of their physical health in a way that prioritises well-being over the fulfilment of societal expectations.

Educationally, boys are facing their own set of challenges. In some cases, boys are lagging behind girls in academic achievement, and this gap is widening. This is not just a reflection of academic ability, but of a system that may not be fully catering to the learning styles and needs of boys. We must ensure that our educational institutions are equipped to support all students, regardless of gender.

Mentorship is another critical area where boys need support. Positive male role models can have a profound impact on the development of boys, helping them to navigate the challenges of growing up in today’s world. We must create more opportunities for boys to connect with mentors who can guide them, provide advice, and model positive behaviour.

Our communities must also play a role in supporting boys. Community programmes that focus on the development of boys, offering them safe spaces to explore their identities and express their emotions, are essential. These programmes should help boys build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Policy changes are needed to ensure that boys receive the support they need at a systemic level. Government policies must reflect a balanced approach to child development, ensuring that both boys and girls have access to resources that promote their growth and well-being. This includes access to mental health services, educational support, and community programmes.

Public awareness is key to changing the narrative around the boy child. We must raise awareness about the challenges boys face and work to eliminate the stigma associated with seeking help. Boys should feel empowered to express their emotions, seek support, and pursue their interests without fear of judgement.

As the former chairperson of the Popular Democratic Movement’s Women’s League, I have seen firsthand the positive impact of focused advocacy on the lives of girls and young women. However, I also recognise that boys have their unique challenges that require our attention. 

We must ensure that our efforts to promote gender equality include a focus on the well-being of boys.

It is not enough to empower one gender at the expense of the other. True gender equality means creating a society where both boys and girls can thrive. This requires us to adopt a holistic approach that recognises the needs of all children and works to address them in a balanced and equitable manner.

The future of our nation depends on the well-being of all our children. By supporting both boys and girls, we are investing in a future where every child can reach their full potential. This is not just a moral imperative; it is a necessity for the continued progress and prosperity of our society.

We must also consider the impact of gendered expectations on the behaviour and attitudes of boys. When boys are encouraged to suppress their emotions and conform to rigid gender norms, they may develop unhealthy coping mechanisms and behaviours. This can lead to issues such as aggression, substance abuse, and difficulty forming healthy relationships.

As we advocate for the empowerment of the girl child, we must also advocate for the empowerment of the boy child. Empowerment does not mean dominance; it means giving boys the tools they need to succeed in a way that is true to themselves, free from the constraints of societal expectations.

I call on educators to implement programmes that address the specific needs of boys, helping them to develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and a positive sense of self. Schools should be places where boys feel safe to express themselves, explore their interests, and receive the support they need to succeed academically and personally.

Parents have a critical role to play in supporting the emotional and mental well-being of their sons. We must encourage parents to engage in open and honest conversations with their boys, listen to their concerns, and provide them with the guidance and support they need to navigate the challenges of growing up.

Our communities must come together to create environments where boys feel valued and supported. This includes providing access to sports, arts, and other extracurricular activities that allow boys to explore their interests and develop their talents. It also means creating safe spaces where boys can discuss their challenges and receive support.

We must also challenge the media and popular culture to portray boys and men in a way that is diverse and reflective of the real experiences of boys. Media has a powerful influence on how boys see themselves and their place in the world, and we must ensure that these portrayals are positive, inclusive, and empowering.

In conclusion, as we continue to fight for the rights and opportunities of the girl child, let us not forget the boy child. Both boys and girls deserve our support, our advocacy, and our commitment. By promoting a 50/50 balance, we can create a society where every child – regardless of gender – can succeed.

Let us work together to ensure that our boys are not left behind. Let us support them, guide them, and empower them to become the men they are meant to be – strong, compassionate, and confident in their ability to contribute positively to our society.

I am committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of all children in Namibia. I urge all Namibians to join me in this effort, to speak out for the boy child, and ensure that our society is one where every child can thrive.

*Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo is a teacher by training and the current mayor of Opuwo.