By Jezuva Keeja
The wellbeing of boys and men is equally important to Namibia’s national development agenda, and no child—whether girl or boy—should be left behind, Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Hon. Dr Emma Kantema, said today.
Kantema made the remarks during the Male Engagement Symposium, hosted alongside the DEN Impact Foundation, under the theme: “Coordinating Namibia’s Work with Men and Boys for Gender Equality and Wellbeing in Namibia.”
The Minister said the symposium’s theme aligns with the Third National Gender Equality and Equity Policy 2025–2035, which is premised on the principle that women and men, boys and girls, are equal.
She noted that the policy also recognises the important role that men and boys can play in preventing and responding to gender-based violence (GBV), violence against children, HIV and AIDS, as well as in promoting gender equality and equity.
Kantema further emphasised the importance of coordination in advancing programmes aimed at men and boys.
“Coordination is the backbone of successful programming. Effective coordination helps us avoid duplication, use resources efficiently, and ensure that communities receive clear, consistent and accurate messages.” It enables stakeholders to save time, energy and resources while ensuring that interventions have a greater impact on communities.
She said coordinated efforts also contribute to the aspirations of Vision 2030, which seeks to build a fair, gender-responsive, caring and committed nation where all citizens can realise their full potential in a safe environment.
