As the year comes to another end, I can only look back and be proud of myself and my avid readers. It has been four years of consistent writing and consistent information dissemination to my Namibian Queens. Equally, it has also been a learning year for most of the men in my circle, if not everyone who comes across my articles. Thank you for the conversations and platform to educate one another.
For as long as I have been writing on women-related issues, the resilience and strength of women have been shining bright as they wear multiple hats. These include leaders, mothers, friends, and fierce activists battling against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). As we navigate through the year, it’s essential to take a moment to applaud the phenomenal women who make invaluable contributions to society.
So many young Namibian women have stepped up and taken leadership roles, demonstrating exceptional skills and dedication. From boardrooms to community organizations, they have proven that leadership knows no gender. These women have shown that navigating challenges with grace, offering innovative solutions, and inspiring those around them is not impossible.
I would like to applaud more young women whose leadership extends beyond formal positions, with many actively participating in grassroots movements that cater to amplifying the voices of marginalized young girls and advocating for positive change. These changes are evident in the number of podcasts available that cater to women’s conversations, projects that empower young girls, and making sure they stay in school.
Amidst their leadership roles, Namibian women excel in another crucial area—motherhood. I follow a page on Instagram called @Justmomit Namibia it is a support group for mothers in the country, particularly those who lost their babies. I am not a mother, however, that doesn’t mean I cannot applaud mothers who go through loss and or continue to raise children. It takes a lot of strength to continue with life after losing your baby and I am here to tell you that, you are doing great. Balancing careers, community engagement, and nurturing homes, you are indeed the epitome of strength and resilience. However, I would also like to remind you that, you need to extend yourself grace. You don’t always have to be the stronger woman. You are allowed to feel.
Being an activist, I would also like to extend my gratitude to my protest sisters. As activists fighting against Gender-Based Violence, Namibian women have emerged as warriors, challenging societal norms and advocating for a world free from violence. It is important to acknowledge how tirelessly we work towards raising awareness, providing support for survivors, and pushing for legal reforms that address GBV comprehensively in Namibia.
The activism against GBV is not confined to a select few; rather, it’s a collective effort with women from all walks of life joining hands. From urban centres to rural communities, Namibian women are making strides in dismantling the structures that perpetuate gender-based violence.
Our work on advocacy extends to education and empowerment initiatives, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to GBV. While Namibian women are creating a future where no one has to live in fear, and every individual can thrive without the shadows of violence, we do need to rally behind them.
In the diverse tapestry of Namibian society, women play multifaceted roles with unparalleled grace and strength. Whether leading with vision, nurturing families, fostering friendships, or fighting against injustice, Namibian women stand as pillars of inspiration and positive change.
As we celebrate these remarkable women for their leadership, motherhood, friendship, and activism against GBV, let’s recognize the transformative impact they have on Namibia’s present and future. May their stories continue to inspire generations to come, and may their efforts pave the way for a more equitable and harmonious society.
* Frieda Mukufa’s lifestyle section in the New Era newspaper concentrates on women-related issues and parenting. She also specialises in editing research proposals, proofreading as well as content- creation.
- etuholefrieda@gmail.com