President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said, although Namibia has made strides to promote gender equality and ensure that women take their rightful place in the country’s development, women globally still face challenges that limit their full participation in society. 

In her International Women’s Day message yesterday, celebrated under the theme, ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls’, the Head of State said the day should serve as both a celebration and a reminder that the struggle for full equality persists.

“This year’s theme is a clear call to action for all of us to remove the obstacles that prevent women and girls from fully enjoying their rights and opportunities,” she said.

She stated that, today, women contribute to many areas of society, including government, business, agriculture, education and community leadership.

She said it was encouraging to see more women taking up leadership positions and playing an important role in shaping the country’s future.

“I am particularly encouraged to see women serving with distinction in leadership positions across our country. Their voices, ideas and commitment continue to shape our democracy and help guide our nation forward,” she said. 

At the same time, the President urged young women and girls to believe in their potential and make use of the opportunities available to them.

“To the women and girls of Namibia, I want to say this clearly: your dreams are not limited by your gender. In today’s Namibia, you can become whatever you aspire to be,” she said. 

Nandi-Ndaitwah acknowledged that serious challenges remain, including gender-based violence, economic inequality and harmful social attitudes that continue to affect women and girls.

She stressed that addressing these problems requires joint efforts from government, civil society, traditional leaders, the private sector and communities.

“Empowering women and girls is not only a matter of fairness and dignity. It is essential for the growth and prosperity of our nation,” she said. 

The President also called on men and boys to play an active role in building a more equal society.

She said the journey toward equality cannot succeed without their support.

“Building a just and equal society means raising boys who respect, support and champion the rights and aspirations of women and girls,” she said. 

She continued: “As we mark International Women’s Day, let us remain committed to building a Namibia where equality, opportunity and justice are realities for all women and girls”.

-ljason@nepc.com.na