Vice President Lucia Witbooi officially opened the 8th Session of the Rural Women's Parliament with Men as Partners.

In her address, she urged participants to focus their discussions on the pressing issue of gender-based violence, which she described as a growing concern in society.

Witbooi called on communities to refrain from harmful cultural practices that fuel violence, stressing the need for collective efforts to create safer and more inclusive environments.

Vice Chairperson of the National Council, Victoria Kauma, revealed that 42 participants are participating in the session.

These include 28 women, two representatives from each region, and 14 men, one from each region.

Kauma acknowledged the important role women play in building families and communities, adding that their hard work is widely recognised.