The Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare (MGEPESW) has launched the 3rd National Gender Equality and Equity Policy running from 2025 to 2035.
Doreen Sioka launched the policy aimed at reducing all forms of gender discrimination, gender-based violence, and gender inequalities during the commemoration of International Women's Day held at Opuwo.
With this policy, according to Sioka, Namibia will have a gender-just society where women, men, girls and boys, persons with disabilities, and indigenous minorities enjoy equal rights and live freely in dignity, have equal rights, and live freely among others.
Sioka said the government has, over the years, demonstrated a strong will to address gender inequality and equity by enacting legal instruments on gender equality and women's empowerment, such as the Affirmative Action Plan, the Married Person's Equality Act, and the Combating of Rape Amendment Act of 2022, among others.
The implementation of the initiatives, Sioka added, has seen Namibia closing the gap to at least 80.5% globally, ranking Namibia at number 8 and one in Sub-Saharan Africa, a great achievement.
"Namibia cannot wait for another 30 years to fulfil the promise of gender equality. Today, we stand stronger, more united, and determined to become the first generation to achieve gender parity in all spheres of life. We all need to work together to eradicate gender-based violence and violence against children in our society. Let us challenge harmful social norms that perpetuate gender inequality. Empowering women, girls, boys, and the youth drives innovation, resilience, and sustainable economic growth."
UN Resident Coordinator Hopolang Phororo said the landmark United Nations Conference held in Beijing, China, 30 years ago, where the rights of women were universally reaffirmed as human rights, drove a positive achievement towards gender equality.
"Since then, women and girls have shattered barriers, defied stereotypes, and demanded their rightful place in society. Yet, as the Secretary-General aptly points out, we must remain clear-eyed about the challenges that still lie ahead."
This year's celebration was held under the theme "For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment" and calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities for all women and girls where no one is left behind.