The Namibia Media Professionals Union (NAMPU) is calling on media houses to stop treating women journalists as assistants and give them leadership opportunities.

The call comes as the world celebrates International Women's Day, a day that recognises the achievements of women and promotes gender equality.

In a statement, NAMPU says although more women are entering journalism, most leadership positions in newsrooms are still held by men.

The union says women are often given support roles while senior editorial and decision-making positions remain out of reach.

A 2020 report by African Women in Media found that women journalists in sub-Saharan Africa still face barriers in the profession.

These include slow career growth, pay differences, workplace sexism and sexual harassment.

NAMPU is calling on media organisations to promote women based on their skills and experience.

The Union also calls for fair pay, good mentorship and strong action against harassment in newsrooms.