The 9th High-Level National Gender Advisory Committee Meeting has called for stronger coordination across government ministries and stakeholders to advance gender equality and address persistent social challenges in Namibia.

Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare Emma Kantema said implementation of the country's third national gender equality and equity policy, launched last year, depends on coordinated efforts across all sectors.

Dr Kantema expressed concern over persistently high levels of gender-based violence and poverty.

"Let this meeting renew our collective resolve to meet, to coordinate, to report, and to resource, and above all, to act. Let us ensure that our efforts lead not only to discussion in resolutions but also to measurable changes in the lives of our people."

She called on all ministries to take responsibility for addressing social challenges and improving the well-being of citizens.

Prime Minister and committee chairperson, Elijah Ngurare, noted Namibia's progress in narrowing the gender parity gap, saying the country should work to maintain its position as a regional leader in gender equality.

"This meeting provides an opportunity, an important one, for us to assess the progress made in implementing the policy of 2025/2035. Our primary task is to review implementation during the 2025/2026 financial year, identify achievements and outstanding challenges, and adopt resolutions of key areas requiring high-level political support and intervention."

He also stressed the importance of including boys and men in gender-related interventions, while addressing issues such as period poverty and gender-based violence.

The meeting brought together ministers, deputy ministers, executive directors, regional governors, and other stakeholders to assess progress in implementing the country's gender policy and strengthen accountability for the well-being of all Namibians.