Vice president Lucia Witbooi addresses Women’s World Day of Prayer in Windhoek

Windhoek, Khomas Region. 7 March 2026.

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Good afternoon.

It is both an honour and a privilege to join you on this important occasion. Today we observe the Women’s World Day of Prayer. We gather not only as individuals, but as part of a remarkable global movement of faith that unites Christian women across more than 180 countries and regions.

This year’s theme, ‘I Will Give You Rest: Come’, is from the Gospel according to Matthew 11:28–30. It reminds us of Jesus Christ’s compassionate invitation to all who are weary and burdened. The scripture reads: “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

These words speak profoundly to our present realities. They remind us that Christ offers not only comfort but also spiritual renewal, restored hope and inner peace to those who carry heavy burdens.

The Women’s World Day of Prayer, which began in 1887 through the initiative of a group of faithful women, has grown into one of the most remarkable global movements of Christian solidarity. It is a testament to the power of faith when it is united across cultures, languages and denominations. It is a movement that reminds us that prayer is not merely a spiritual practice, but a force capable of transforming lives, communities and nations.

In Namibia we are blessed to have institutions of faith that have historically stood on the side of justice and human dignity. The Council of Churches in Namibia has played a significant role in our country’s history. Since its establishment in 1978, the council has been a strong moral voice in the struggle for justice, freedom and human rights. During the years of our liberation struggle, it stood fearlessly in defence of the dignity and freedom of our people. After independence, it has continued to advocate for social justice and the empowerment of marginalised communities.

Yet even as we celebrate progress, we must acknowledge the heavy burdens that many still carry. One of the most painful challenges confronting our society today is gender-based violence. This violence shatters families, erodes trust within communities and undermines the very foundations of peace and dignity. Behind every statistic lies a human life – a daughter, a mother, a sister, a child – each one valuable and each one created in the image of God.

Theological reflection reminds us of the concept of Imago Dei, which affirms that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. The Book of Genesis teaches us that humanity was created in God’s image – male and female are equal in dignity and value. When violence is inflicted upon another human being, that sacred image is violated. As people of faith, we therefore have a moral obligation to stand firmly against all forms of violence, injustice and discrimination.

This year’s reflections also draw our attention to the experiences of women in Nigeria. Their stories remind us that across the world many women continue to face barriers in education, economic opportunity, leadership and participation in public life. Harmful practices and structural inequalities still prevent many women and girls from realising their full potential.

Therefore, our faith calls us not to remain silent in the face of such injustice. It calls us to pray with understanding, to act with courage and to stand in solidarity with those whose voices are often unheard.

The motto of the Women’s World Day of Prayer, ‘Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action’, captures this responsibility perfectly. Prayer must inspire action. Faith must translate into service. Churches must remain not only places of worship, but also centres of healing, reconciliation and transformation within our communities.

I therefore call upon the Council of Churches in Namibia and its member churches to continue their vital work of providing care, compassion and practical support to survivors of violence, while steadfastly challenging the harmful attitudes, cultural norms and structural injustices that perpetuate violence in our communities.

The moral voice and community presence of the churches remain indispensable in promoting healing, reconciliation and social transformation. As a nation, we must strengthen our collective resolve to protect the dignity and rights of every person, particularly the most vulnerable among us.

As Christians, we are reminded of our shared calling to be peacemakers – to build bridges where others build walls, to respond to hatred with love, to overcome division with unity and to confront despair with hope. I therefore encourage the churches to continue standing at the forefront of this important work, helping to foster a society rooted in justice, compassion and respect, where every Namibian can live free from violence, fear and discrimination.

In conclusion, let us carry forward the spirit of reflection, solidarity and renewed commitment that this day represents. This gathering reminds us that our strength as a nation and as a community of faith lies in our unity, our compassion and our shared determination to uplift one another. When we stand together in prayer and purpose, we affirm that the struggles faced by women, families and vulnerable members of our communities are not theirs alone to bear, but a collective responsibility that calls for our active care and response.

May God bless you all.

I thank you.

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