Speaker of the National Assembly, Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, has said that women's leadership is not only a necessity but also a crucial element for sustainable development and inclusive democracy.
Dr. Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said this during the opening of the national Round Table on Women in Politics and Decision-Making at Swakopmund.
Hosted by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare in partnership with the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, the event aims to strengthen the capacity of women leaders across the political spectrum.
The speaker emphasised that, by challenging deep-seated gender norms and reaffirming the legal commitments outlined in instruments such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, this gathering demonstrates Namibia's dedication to removing barriers that prevent women from fully participating in public life.
Despite recent progress, she notes concerns about the decline in women's representation in Parliament.
"Women constitute half of the world population. Women's participation in leadership is therefore critical for development and prosperity, as this ensures that the political agendas and development policies prioritise issues that are of strategic interest to women, children, and the girl child and that development is inclusive. Empowering women and men is not a zero-sum game. Gender equity and equality are not about prospering women at the expense of men; it is about justice and prosperity."
She also called for renewed efforts to reverse this trend, urging the country to not only maintain past achievements but to build on them.
"As women, we face many challenges. This requires that as women, we are conscious of the issues affecting women and gender equality in society and how to work with other women and also with men to transform society positively. The enactment and amendment of laws must be extended to include the prohibition of cyberbullying, and deepfakes should be urgently addressed, as they undermine women's confidence and their progress in leadership."
The Secretary General of the SADC-Parliamentary Forum, Boemo Mmandu Sekgoma, also spoke at the event.
"I would like to emphasise that there is a need to combat violence against women at all levels, in the political sphere as well as outside. The perception that women can be battered or ill-treated with impunity is disparaging to women in politics. Gender-based violence against women must cease, and authorities must act robustly to prosecute the perpetrators. There should be no compromise when it comes to addressing violence against women."
Key outcomes expected from the workshop include sharing experiences among parliamentarians, mentoring opportunities, and the planned creation of a Women's Parliamentary Caucus.