The Governor of ||Kharas, Aletha Frederick, has called for a gender-responsive resource budget allocation in addressing gender disparities.
She made the call at an induction workshop for the Police Women's Network for Focal Point Persons at Keetmanshoop.
The workshop, which aims to equip the Women Network members with the necessary skills on gender-related issues, leadership, personal growth, and fostering collaboration, is being attended by female officers from all 14 of the country's regions.
"It is vital that we strengthen responsibilities at all levels so that every member of our police force understands their role in promoting gender equality. This includes advocating for policies that support women's advancement within law enforcement and ensuring resources are allocated fairly."
The governor furthermore reminded participants to recognise the critical role of political will in addressing gender issues, including gender-based violence.
"Namibia has enacted laws that are sensitive to gender, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure these laws are implemented effectively."
A recent report released by the World Economic Forum ranked Namibia number one as the most gender-equal country in Africa and eighth in the world.
"The number one spot has been held by Rwanda for so many years. And it is now up to us to remain there. It is up to us to remain there. And every one of us needs to read that report and scrutinise where we are lacking so that we improve on that. Because the way they do it is that they look at sectors, different sections of society, and see how the representation of both men and women is in those sectors," said Women's Action for Development (WAD) Executive Director, Salatiel Shinedima.
Nampol's Head of Gender Mainstreaming, Deputy Commissioner Rosalia Shatilweh urged women to confront and overcome low self-esteem.
"The issue of some in this country is something that we must not compromise with. A lot is happening, especially when it comes to positions that are not really being offered or women are not given the opportunity to lead or spearhead those positions. I think it is high time as women; we must really stand up and do away with this low self-esteem, and I think through that we would be able to be also on the same par as our fellow men."
The Women's Action for `Development partly facilitates the workshop themed 'Working Together to Inspire Change' that ends on Friday.