Honorable Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, Speaker of the National Assembly, delivered a compelling statement at the inaugural Omuhanga (Men and Women) Conference of the ELCIN Eastern Dioceses held at Hosianna Congregation, Windhoek, on Friday, 26 September 2025. She expressed her delight in participating in this landmark event the first time the conference convenes in the nation’s capital since it began in 2010 and praised the Lutheran Church for fostering dialogue on pressing societal issues affecting men and women.
The Speaker underscored the integral role of the Church as not only a spiritual guide but also a critical social service provider reaching even the remotest communities. Given the escalating challenges affecting the moral fabric of Namibian society such as rising crime rates, children and gender-based violence, and substance abuse the Church’s wide network serves as an invaluable partner to government efforts aimed at community development and social stability.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment, Speaker Kuugongelwa-Amadhila detailed ongoing programs, particularly those championed by the Ministry of Gender, which advocate for gender equality and equitable opportunities for men and women alike. She clarified that gender equity concerns empowering all men, women, boys, and girls recognizing societal progress requires the inclusion and active participation of every group.
A core message of her address was the mutual responsibility of men and women in nurturing strong families, which are the foundation of a healthy society. She highlighted the importance of both parents’ roles in raising confident, responsible children who will carry forward the future of Namibia. The initiatives led by the Lutheran Church, such as the conference itself, were applauded for promoting peaceful homes, reducing domestic violence, and combating challenges like children-headed households and street children issues deeply linked to community development.
In closing, the Speaker commended the high attendance as a testament to the delegates’ dedication, encouraged continued church programs for community upliftment, and affirmed the government’s commitment to fostering fruitful partnerships with the Church. She wished all participants successful deliberations and fruitful outcomes from the conference.
