WINDHOEK- The Executive Director of the Women’s Action for Development (WAD) Salatiel Shinedima is of the view that men should not be excluded from participating in finding solutions to gender equality problems.
He said matters pertaining to gender equality have long been perceived as women issues and this has resulted in fewer men showing interest in gender related matters.
“WAD believes that if the status quo continues we may not successfully achieve some of our developmental goals which are largely based on providing equal opportunities to all Namibians,” said Shinedima on Friday.
Policies and legislation alone cannot ensure the successful achievement of gender equality, he added. “A change of mindset and attitude towards gender equality is needed for us to achieve that goal,” he said.
He further said men should realise the importance of providing equal opportunities to men and women.
“If we fail to realise this value as a nation we shall pay a hefty price of continued disempowerment and discrimination of girls and young women for generations to come,” he stated.
He further called on political parties to be responsible in their campaigns saying they should educate the electorate to respect the laws of Namibia.
“WAD appeals to political parties to refrain from tactless and harmful statements which cause confusing impressions among young boys and men while Namibia is on the road to gender equality,” he said.