Women Leaders Unite in Namibia to Shape a Better Future

Windhoek, Namibia - Today, UN Namibia hosted the "We the Women" Intergenerational Dialogue, a campaign aimed at amplifying the voices of women and girls in Namibia and worldwide on critical global issues and multilateralism. Women from various fields and walks of life convened for the dialogue.

The dialogue, led by the Resident Coordinator to Namibia Ms. Hopolang Phororo, brought together women from various generations to discuss the opportunities and challenges they face in shaping a better future. Participants highlighted the increasing access to information through technology and the growing representation of women in leadership positions as positive developments. However, they also acknowledged the persistent pressures women face in balancing multiple roles without adequate support.

Unemployment emerged as a major challenge, with participants exploring potential solutions such as community-based initiatives and digital skills training. Education was identified as both an opportunity and an area requiring attention, with internships and vocational training being proposed as a means to empower more women. The importance of inclusive education was emphasized to ensure that all women can achieve their full potential.

Intergenerational differences and shrinking civil society spaces were among the concerns raised during the dialogue. Participants recognized the impact of technology but stressed the need for open dialogue across generations to guide its influence. Protecting girls online and in traditional media was also identified as a priority.

The dialogue also touched on environmental issues and the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions in sectors like agriculture. Participants committed to advocating for gender-sensitive policies and inclusive solutions tailored to the diverse needs of women.

Despite the challenges, the women leaders expressed optimism about the progress made so far and the work that lies ahead. They agreed that through unity, empowerment, and leveraging their voices, they can meaningfully shape a better future.

The "We the Women" campaign recognizes that although the UN Charter begins with "we the people," women had limited representation during its signing and minimal involvement in shaping the institution and its objectives. Through inclusive platforms like this dialogue and an ongoing global survey, the campaign aims to gather diverse perspectives and collective actions that will influence the UN's vision for the future, including the Outcome document of the Summit of the Future to be adopted in September 2024.

Women and girls across Namibia are encouraged to participate in the global survey by visiting [https://bit.ly/3wO8oMa](https://bit.ly/3wO8oMa) and sharing their voices. The contributions gathered will supplement the perspectives shared during the dialogue, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of women and girls are heard on a global scale.