Fillemon Amoolongo, also known as DJ Munene, is the founder and president of the Progressive Men Empowerment Organisation of Namibia (PMEON). He says his journey began in the entertainment industry, but his passion for community upliftment and social justice led him to establish PMEON, a platform dedicated to empowering Namibian men emotionally, socially, and economically.
He told New Era that through this organisation, he aims to reshape narratives around masculinity and promote inclusive development.
“The idea was born from a deep concern about emotional isolation, societal pressures, and the lack of safe spaces for men to express themselves. I witnessed firsthand how many men struggle silently with mental health, unemployment, and identity crises,” he said.
Amoolongo further stated that the Namibia National Men’s Conference was their first bold step toward breaking the silence and sparking dialogue.
“We wanted to create a movement that promotes positive masculinity, mental wellness, and gender equality, while also addressing pressing issues like gender-based violence (GBV) and economic marginalisation.”
PMEON was officially launched on 17 September 2022 at A. Shipena Secondary School in Windhoek, following the success of the inaugural Namibia National Men’s Conference.
“On the first day, we were overwhelmed by the turnout. Over 3,000 men from various regions of Namibia gathered to participate. The energy was electric, the conversations were raw and transformative, and it confirmed the need for such a platform was long overdue,” he emphasised.
Amoolongo stressed that one of their proudest moments was the 2023 conference held at the Swakopmund Multipurpose Hall, where critical recommendations were made to promote job creation and improve mental health support.
“While our core focus is on men’s empowerment, our conferences are inclusive. We welcome men, women, youth, and community leaders who are committed to building a more compassionate and equitable society,” he added.
He stated that PMEON believes addressing issues like GBV and emotional wellness requires collaborative dialogue, not isolation.
“Our flagship event, the Namibia National Men’s Conference, is held annually and rotates across different regions to ensure national reach. In addition, we host quarterly regional dialogues, workshops, and community activations,” Amoolongo explained.
“Venues have included Windhoek, Swakopmund, Keetmanshoop, Ondangwa, and most recently, Helao Nafidi, where we partnered with local stakeholders to amplify voices against GBV.”
He also highlighted challenges such as the lack of funding for grassroots initiatives and logistical hurdles in reaching remote communities. Additionally, he pointed to the difficulties in balancing tradition and progress, especially when promoting gender equality.
“Despite these challenges, our commitment remains unwavering. Each obstacle has only strengthened our resolve to build a more inclusive and empowered Namibia.”
Amoolongo concluded with a passionate call to action: “Let us break the silence, dismantle harmful stereotypes, and build a society where men and women thrive together. PMEON is not just an organisation, it’s a movement.
A movement for healing, growth, and justice. Join us in creating safe spaces, promoting mental wellness, and driving sustainable development. Together, we can redefine what it means to be a man in Namibia.”
-fhamalwa@nepc.com.na