Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila
Photo: Russian Federation Council
Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila Photo: Russian Federation Council

Namibia ‘committed to women empowerment’

News in short
Jemima Beukes
Namibia reaffirmed its dedication to advancing women's participation in public and political life during an event co-hosted by Togo, Botswana, Djibouti, Rwanda and Senegal to mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila highlighted Namibia's progress, citing legislative reforms like the Married Persons Equality Act and the Affirmative Action (Employment) Act, and pointed out that Namibia extended maternity benefits for civil servants from three to four months, demonstrating a commitment to gender parity.

She emphasised the ruling party's 50/50 zebra-style gender representation policy, showcasing Namibia's dedication to women's inclusion in political decision-making and further highlighted that the country is collaborating with the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance to run a programme for women in politics and decision-making.

“Prior to 1996, women in Namibia were considered minors and this meant that they had no autonomy to enter into contracts without power of attorney from their husbands or male relatives. This was reformed by the enactment of the Married Persons Equality Act. This signifies how far the nation has come in terms of the protection of women’s rights.”

She also told the gathering that the Women, Peace and Security Centre, launched by Namibia, aims to promote global positive change through mediation and inclusive peace-making.

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-27

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