Rural Women Parliament Opens with Call for Equality and Shared Responsibility

Speech by Victoria Mbawo Kauma, vice chairperson of the National Council, Windhoek, 22 September 2025

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It is both a profound honour and a distinct privilege to extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you as we commence the official opening of the eighth Session of the Rural Women Parliament with Men as Partners.

This esteemed platform draws its participants from all 14 regions of our nation, with each region represented by two women and one man, bringing together a total of 28 women and 14 men, amounting to 42 dedicated members.

Over the years, this parliament has evolved into a vital space for inclusive dialogue, thoughtful reflection, and coordinated action, where the voices of rural women and men are not only heard but meaningfully acknowledged and powerfully amplified.

The theme selected for this eighth session, ‘Breaking Barriers: Advancing Sustainable Support and Services for Rural Women and Men’, resonates deeply with the core aspirations of our national development agenda. It calls upon us to critically examine the enduring structural impediments confronting our rural communities, and simultaneously challenges us to pursue courageous, pragmatic interventions that foster inclusivity, uphold equality, and drive meaningful progress.

As a house of parliament, we view this initiative not merely as a consultative platform, but as a vital conduit – one that connects the lived realities and aspirations of our citizens with the processes of policy formulation at the highest levels of governance.

Through inclusive engagements such as this, we reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring that no Namibian – whether residing in the most remote village or within the heart of our urban centres – is left behind in our pursuit of sustainable development.

What distinguishes the Rural Women Parliament with Men as Partners is its foundational emphasis on collaboration. It is a space where women and men stand shoulder to shoulder, share responsibilities, and contribute in equal measure to the social and economic transformation of our communities.

This spirit of partnership is not only progressive, but essential to building a more just, inclusive, and resilient society. The above can be achieved once we positively respond to the mantra of our first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah: “We are too few to be poor.”

It is my esteemed duty and sincere privilege to introduce our guest of honour, who joins us here today in this momentous session. This occasion is indeed a rare and cherished opportunity, and I am deeply honoured.

She stands as a resolute champion of inclusivity, social justice, and the empowerment of all Namibians. Her unwavering leadership continues to inspire national cohesion and galvanize our shared pursuit of prosperity, equity, and dignity for every citizen.

At this juncture, I respectfully invite Lucia Witbooi, vice president of the Republic of Namibia, to take the floor and deliver the keynote address.

Madam vice president, we warmly welcome you to the National Council. Kindly address the members of the Rural Women Parliament with Men as Partners, as well as the broader audience joining us through various media platforms.

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