Lahja Nashuuta

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed Namibia’s firm commitment to promoting gender equality across all sectors. 

She emphasised that women’s emancipation is both a constitutional duty and a moral obligation.

During the 63rd Pan African Women’s Day celebration in Windhoek over the weekend, President Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted Namibia’s leadership in gender equality on the continent, ranking first in Africa and eighth worldwide on the latest international gender parity index.

“This ranking underscores our nation’s continuous efforts to empower women through political representation, education, and economic participation,” she stated.

She praised Namibia’s 50/50 gender representation policy, known as the zebra style, championed by Swapo.

 “This strategic policy has transformed gender balance within Swapo structures and the National Assembly, serving as a strong example for Africa,” she added.

Despite progress, Nandi-Ndaitwah cautioned that much still needs to be achieved.

“As members of Pawo (Pan-African Women’s Organisation) and the Swapo Party Women’s Council, we must persist in fostering solidarity among women, uplifting each other, and promoting initiatives that benefit society broadly,” she urged.

She further stated, “We must amplify our voices for women and girls and tirelessly advocate for social and economic justice.”

This year’s celebration was themed “Advancing Social and Economic Justice for African Women Through Reparations,” calling for action against the lasting effects of colonialism, slavery, apartheid, and imperialism.

Nandi-Ndaitwah reminded attendees of the long history of systemic oppression borne by African women and called on them to work strategically to address past injustices while shaping Africa’s future.

“Our rich history of resistance, especially the crucial role of Namibian women in the liberation struggle, should inspire future generations,” she said.

She added, “The wounds from colonial oppression, land dispossession, gender-based violence, and economic exclusion must be remembered. Instead, they should motivate us to fight injustice in every form.”

The Head of State also warned against the emergence of “new colonialism” amid shifting global geopolitics, urging women in Africa to stay alert and unified. 

“As new forms of colonialism arise in different forms, we must be vigilant and united,” she cautioned.

Meanwhile, Fransina Ndateelela Kahungu, Secretary of the Swapo Party Women’s Council, described the event as a chance to honour pioneering Namibian women, especially President Nandi-Ndaitwah.

Kahungu praised her leadership, describing it as admirable, rooted in service and humility and said, “Her journey teaches us that what God has planned for you will never pass you by—Inhyi Kalunga e shi ku pungulila, iheshi li po!”

Women in all areas of society

Swapo veteran Kanana Hishoono, also speaking at the event, emphasised the vital role of Namibian women—from the liberation movement to post-independence governance.

“Hishoono highlighted that Namibian women have continuously broken barriers. Their contributions have been proactive and courageous, influencing policy and advancing gender equality at all government levels,” he explained.

He added, “Socially, women form the backbone of communities, leading in education, healthcare, and family well-being. Through grassroots efforts, they combat domestic violence, promote girls’ education, and improve healthcare access.”

Regarding the economy, Hishoono noted, “Women still overcome structural obstacles. In agriculture, they are the main food producers. Their entrepreneurial spirit is visible in the thriving small and medium enterprises that greatly support our national economy,” he concluded. -lnashuuta@nepc.com.na