Message by Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on International Women’s Day 8 March 2026 Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, joins the rest of the world in the commemoration of International Women’s Day, which is held annually on 08 March as part of the global movement to advance women’s rights, promote gender equality and recognise the invaluable contribution of women and girls to the development of societies. In her message of commemoration, President Nandi-Ndaitwah says: “Today, I join Namibians and the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day under the theme ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.’ Over the years, the world has made important strides in advancing the rights and empowerment of women. Across many societies, women have gained greater access to education, leadership, and economic opportunities. These achievements are the result of decades of advocacy, courage and determination by women and men who believed in equality and justice. Yet, while we acknowledge this progress, we must also recognise that the journey towards full equality is far from complete. International Women’s Day therefore reminds us not only to celebrate the achievements of women and girls, but also to reflect on the work that still lies ahead. Around the world, women continue to face barriers that limit their full participation in society. This year’s theme is a clear call to action for all of us to remove the obstacles that prevent women and girls from fully enjoying their rights and opportunities. For Namibia, this occasion allows us to reflect on the progress we have made since Independence. As a nation, we have taken meaningful steps to promote gender equality and to ensure that women take their rightful place in the development of our country. Today, women contribute immensely across all sectors of society, whether in government, business, agriculture, education, or within our communities. This year also reminds us of the historic commitments made at the 1995 Beijing World Conference on Women, where nations came together and adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. That moment marked an important turning point in the global movement for gender equality, affirming that the empowerment of women is essential for development, peace and human dignity. Namibia remains committed to the spirit of those commitments as we continue expanding opportunities for women and girls in our country. I am particularly encouraged to see women serving with distinction in leadership positions across our country. Their voices, ideas and commitment continue to shape our democracy and help guide our nation forward. To the women and girls of Namibia, I want to say this clearly: your dreams are not limited by your gender. In today’s Namibia, you can become whatever you aspire to be. The opportunities before you were made possible by those who fought for the rights and dignity of women. Nothing should stand in the way of your ambitions except the limits you place on yourselves. I therefore encourage every young girl and every woman to embrace these opportunities with confidence and determination. As we celebrate the progress we have made, we must also remember the many women across the world who are still living under oppression and denied the opportunities that others enjoy. On this day, they remain in our thoughts. We must continue working together as a global community so that one day every woman and girl, regardless of where she is born, will have equal access to the opportunities, dignity and rights that others are fortunate to enjoy. At the same time, we must acknowledge that challenges remain. Gender-based violence, economic inequalities, and harmful social attitudes continue to affect many women and girls. Addressing these challenges requires continued effort and cooperation from government, civil society, traditional leaders, the private sector and the broader community.