The third edition of the Namibia National Women's Conference was held on August 1 at the Dome in Swakopmund, bringing together over 400 women from across the country. Attendees traveled from various regions, including Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Karibib, Omaruru, Usakos, and the northern regions. The conference featured institutional leaders and key stakeholders, including representatives from the Correctional Service and the Namibian Police, as well as the Mayor of Swakopmund.
The keynote address was delivered by Acting Inspector General Major General Nainda. The conference focused on financial independence for women and girls, with organizer Fillemon Amoolongo, also known as DJ Munene, emphasizing its importance. According to Amoolongo, financial independence can help prevent violence against women and girls by reducing their reliance on others.
Discussions at the conference also highlighted the importance of parents educating children about relationships and body safety. Amoolongo stressed that parents should teach children about their bodies, private parts, and how to protect themselves. This education aims to prevent future violence by empowering children to report any form of abuse.
The conference also explored the dynamics of gift-giving and relationships between men and women. Amoolongo encouraged men to give gifts without expecting anything in return, emphasizing that gifts should be given from the heart, not with the expectation of entitlement. Delegates also discussed the importance of understanding women's likes, dislikes, and boundaries to prevent forced relationships.
Education was another key topic at the conference, with delegates emphasizing its role in empowering women and preventing violence. Amoolongo described the conference as a significant platform for dialogue among Namibian women, where ideas and solutions can be shared to address issues affecting women's lives.
The conference encouraged men to understand and respect women's boundaries and to date within their means to avoid financial complications. Delegates also raised awareness about the importance of couples being financially stable and not relying on others for financial support.
Overall, the Namibia National Women's Conference provided a platform for women to share ideas and find solutions to issues affecting their lives. With over 400 attendees, the conference was a significant event that highlighted the importance of financial independence, education, and healthy relationships in preventing violence against women and girls.
Key points
- The conference aimed to empower women and girls to be financially independent and avoid financial dependence on others.
- Education and awareness about relationships, body safety, and boundaries were key discussion topics at the conference.
- The event brought together institutional leaders, stakeholders, and over 400 women from across Namibia to share ideas and find solutions to issues affecting women's lives.
