Ondangwa: Ondangwa mayor Ester Auala has urged women to actively participate in leadership roles and uphold integrity while serving their communities.
According to Namibia Press Agency, speaking at the International Women's Day commemoration on Wednesday, Auala encouraged women to believe in their leadership abilities and take responsibility for driving positive change in society. "I stand here today to encourage all women out there to take part in leadership and believe in your ability to lead. A strong woman can also be a great leader," said Auala.
Auala stressed that women leaders must carry themselves with dignity and discipline while prioritizing service to their communities. "A good leader focuses on serving the people, not on distractions. Women in leadership must avoid things that can destroy their reputation, such as alcohol abuse and gambling," she said.
She also encouraged leaders to listen more to community members to better understand their needs and lead with wisdom. "Listen more and talk less. When you listen, you understand the needs of your people, and you lead with wisdom. Most importantly, be yourself. Your strength, your voice, and your values are what make you a powerful leader," Auala added.
In a speech read on his behalf, Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge stated the importance of recognizing the role women have played in shaping Namibia's journey toward equality and development. "Let us understand that Namibia's story of women's achievement is one of determination, progress, and national transformation. It is a story of women who have shattered barriers and claimed space at the highest level of leadership, of girls who walk confidently into classrooms and universities and communities embracing the value of women's equal participation in all spheres of life," Iipinge said.
He added that there is a need to empower women and girls by increasing awareness of their rights, strengthening compliance, and holding institutions accountable to honor the country's commitment to equality, justice, and sustainable development.