The Deputy Inspector General for Administration at the Namibian Police (NamPol), Major General Anna-Marie Nainda, says it is important that Namibia understands the need for gender mainstreaming, as women and men have different experiences, needs, and priorities.

She says failure to recognize and address these differences may lead to inequalities.

Nainda was speaking during the two-day Gender Mainstreaming Workshop being held at Swakopmund.

The purpose of this workshop is, among others, to create an understanding of the impact of gender mainstreaming in the context of institutional transformation and the integration of a gender equality perspective within our various sectors.

She says that it is imperative to highlight that gender mainstreaming must be a guiding principle to ensure effective multi-sectoral services in the Criminal Justice Sector (CJS).

Hence, all individuals involved in providing these services, including policy drafters, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, and other service providers, should understand the importance of gender equality and the role it plays in promoting justice.

However, to achieve the prioritization of gender equality in the workplace and the adoption of a holistic approach to effective services, we ought to develop gender-sensitive policies and guidelines, provide gender-sensitive training, and promote inclusivity for all.