Swapo Party Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa has described political independence without economic empowerment as incomplete, urging women to participate fully in Namibia's economic transformation.

Shaningwa made the remarks while addressing the Swapo Party Women's Council (SPWC) Ohangwena Regional Annual Seminar, held in the Okongo District over the weekend.

The seminar was held under the theme "Assessing the Economic Activities of Namibian Women."

Addressing delegates, Shaningwa said annual seminars are essential for strengthening party structures, empowering women, and creating the space and resources needed to effectively implement programmes at the grassroots level.

"By creating space for women from different districts of the Ohangwena Region to discuss the real challenges they face, recognising resources for the regional office, and fostering healthy competition for recognition, you are actively positioning the Swapo Party and its members to fulfil their aims and take their rightful place."

Shaningwa said the SPWC has a critical role to play in advancing Namibia's socioeconomic development, particularly in promoting the economic emancipation of women.

She also stressed the importance of safeguarding the party's 50/50 gender representation policy, describing it as a major milestone that has empowered women to participate meaningfully in leadership and decision-making processes.