Youth leader Duminga Ndala strongly believes that a generation of young women is rising with clarity, courage, and conviction, determined not only to claim their space but also to reshape the systems that have been excluding them.

Ndala said leadership today is no longer defined by titles alone but by the will to listen, mobilise, and translate lived experiences into actions that benefit the masses.

“It is important because it creates a safe and inclusive space for young women across the continent to engage on issues that directly affect their lives. It enables young women to openly articulate their needs, challenges, and aspirations, while also fostering collective dialogue, solidarity, and shared solutions to the realities they confront,” she said.

She noted that at the heart of this movement is a commitment to dignity, equity, and opportunity to ensure that young women on the continent are not just beneficiaries of exchange, but they are behind the wheel, driving force, and architects. Ndala was recently appointed as thechairperson of the Young Women of Africa (YWOA), a uniting and empowering movement established virtually in 2021 by a group of young women, including youth and former youth leaders. 

Over the years, YWOA has rapidly grown into a continental network, uniting young women from 39 countries aged 16 to 40.

The movement serves as a platform for young women to pursue and amplify the transformation agenda for a better Africa, with the mission of inspiring, empowering, and supporting them in every sphere of life.

Ndala is ecstatic for the new role, saying that “it reflects years of consistent activism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advocating for gender equality and social justice. As a young leader, it affirms the work I have invested in uplifting women’s voices and championing inclusive development across our communities.”

She said some of the priorities as chairperson include championing access to adequate and quality healthcare, which remains one of the most pressing challenges affecting young women and girls across Africa.

“Closely linked to this is period poverty among the girl child, which continues to undermine dignity, education, and overall well-being. These challenges are not merely health issues but are deeply rooted in socio-economic inequalities that require urgent, coordinated policy and community-based interventions.

The politician added that addressing these challenges requires deliberate advocacy, strong policy frameworks, and sustained investment in women-centred development.

“We must continue to engage governments, civil society, and international partners to ensure that the rights and needs of young women are prioritised in national and continental agendas,” she noted.

She said: “I want to leave a legacy of empowered, confident, and informed young women who are not only aware of their rights but are also active participants in shaping policies, institutions, and societies. My vision is to contribute to building a generation of women leaders who will continue to advance equality, justice, and sustainable development long after our tenure.”

YWOA believes in the power of unity, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration to drive systemic change across the continent.

“By providing resources, mentorship, and advocacy, we are shaping a future where young women in Africa have the tools to lead, innovate, and succeed,” she concluded.

Ndala is a youth leader and politician who currently serves as Chairperson of the Namibian opposition, Landless People’s Movement Youth Command Element. -psiririka@nepc.com.na