WINDHOEK: In a statement marking International Human Rights Day and Namibian Women’s Day, President Hage Geingob acknowledged Namibia’s progress in gender equality, particularly in female representation in Parliament and leadership roles. He recognized the country’s achievements while also addressing the ongoing challenges faced by women in various aspects of life.
According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), despite significant strides, issues such as gender-based violence, unequal access to opportunities, and societal biases persist. “The Namibian Government remains committed to empowering women and the girl child, while also addressing the needs of the boy child, to end deeply rooted forms of discrimination that affect most of our vulnerable people,” he stated in his address on Sunday.
The President joined Namibians and the global community in observing International Human Rights Day and Namibian Women’s Day on December 10. This date is significant for Namibia as it commemorates the contributions and achievements of women both during the liberation struggle and in contemporary Namibia. He used the occasion to reflect on the courage, resilience, strength, and leadership of Namibian women across various sectors and generations.
In his remarks, President Geingob paid tribute to the brave actions of Namibian women in 1959 who opposed the forced removals from the Old Location to Katutura by the South African apartheid regime. He emphasized that Namibian Women’s Day serves as an opportunity to look back on the remarkable journey of women whose actions not only shaped a more just and inclusive Namibia but also continue to inspire current and future generations of Namibian women to achieve new heights.