Pan-African Women’s Organisation (Pawo) president Eunice Iipinge has defended the appointment of Chinese businesswoman Stina Wu as the organisation’s special economic adviser, dismissing criticism of the decision.
Wu, a property developer in Namibia known for her close ties to Swapo, was appointed this week.
In the appointment letter, Iipinge says Wu’s selection was based on her business credentials and commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
“This appointment is made in recognition of your distinguished leadership, outstanding contribution to business development, investment promotion, entrepreneurship, and your unwavering commitment to advancing the economic empowerment of women across Namibia and the African continent,” the letter states.
Speaking to The Namibian yesterday, Iipinge said the appointment should not be viewed through the lens of nationality, arguing that Pawo works with partners from across the world.
“I don’t know what triggered people to jump on that.
“Pawo is a specialised agency of the African Union.
“The African Union has six regions, including the diaspora.
“We even have branches in Canada. We work with partners, and the All-China Women’s Federation is one of our partners,” she said.
“She added that Wu’s position is honorary.
“This appointment is not a paid position.
“We were looking for someone to advise us on economic affairs and, given her experience and presence in Namibia, we approached her to provide that support,” Iipinge said.
According to Iipinge, Pawo’s constitution allows for the appointment of non-Africans who contribute to advancing the organisation’s objectives.
“It has nothing to do with whether you are African. Our constitution is clear. Anyone who advances the aims and objectives of Pawo can be appointed as an honorary member or adviser. To say she is not African is not the issue,” she said.
She said the decision was endorsed by Pawo’s leadership.
“The matter was discussed by the organisation’s five vice presidents who tasked me with approaching her. I met her after she participated in our seminar at Ondangwa last year.
“We discussed the possibility of her supporting the organisation, and she agreed to advise us on economic matters,” Iipinge said.
Responding to allegations circulating on social media suggesting the appointment was linked to corruption, Iipinge rejected the claims.
“People are talking about brown envelopes. I will take them to court. I am not a corrupt person,” she said.
She also rejected suggestions that she should have sought public input first.
“Why should I be penalised by Namibians? People want to politicise this issue,” Iipinge said.
“Namibians know how to talk, but have nothing to offer. What can they offer?”
She said Wu knows the industry. “I am not anti-Chenese,” Iipinge said.
Asked whether she appointed Wu because she is considered wealthy, Iipinge said: “Who doesn’t want money? Can I appoint a poor person to give money?
Can I appoint a person who is not an economist to do economics?”
On Tuesday, Wu wrote on her Facebook that she was honoured and humbled by the appointment.
“This appointment is not only a personal milestone but a call to greater service.
“I accept this responsibility with gratitude and a renewed commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, investment, innovation, and sustainable development across Namibia and the African continent,” she writes.
