Minister of gender equality and child welfare Emma Kantema says Namibia cannot afford to leave boys behind.
She says neglecting boys today could have consequences for communities in the future.
She was speaking during an engagement session held at Nkurenkuru on Friday, under the theme ‘Empowering the Boy Child, Inspiring Men, Creating a Brighter, Responsible Future for All’.
She said investing in boys leads to stronger families, safer communities and a brighter future for Namibia.
“There are narratives that the boy child is left behind, but today we are challenging that narrative. Development, protection and empowerment of the boy child is not ignored. It is receiving attention,” she said.
Kantema emphasised that the voices, well-being and futures of boys matter, and noted that the ministry is committed to building strong boys who can become responsible men in future.
Quoting abolitionist Frederick Douglass, she said “it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men”.
She urged the nation to strengthen interventions aimed at empowering boys and inspiring them to become responsible members of society.
Kavango West governor Verna Sinimbo encouraged young boys to recognise the value of educational platforms created specifically for them and to be open to learning.
“Something shared today may help you view your future differently, reconsider a decision or become more focused on the person you want to become,” she said.
She called on leaders, education officials and parents to continue guiding and supporting young men beyond engagement sessions.
Nkurenkuru mayor Andreas Katanga described the engagement as timely, saying communities need to nurture young men who are responsible, disciplined, respectful and equipped to contribute positively to society.
He urged boys to listen to and embrace the guidance offered to them, believe in themselves and remain focused on their goals.
First gentleman Denga Ndaitwah urged young men to grow into responsible members of society.
