Women in Leadership workshop during International Women’s Month
The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) held its Women in Leadership workshop over a two-day period in Windhoek.
Close to 60 women from the MUN Women’s Desk across four regions gathered to engage on key matters affecting them, with the aim of strengthening women’s participation and leadership.
The purpose of the workshop was to receive feedback on constitutional amendments, a report from the IndustriALL Women Committee, and to undertake strategic planning on the way forward for the MUN Women’s Desk.
Regina Nambahu, MUN Women’s Desk chairperson, opened the workshop by applauding the initiative and reminding participants of the current landscape for women in the industry. “We need to reflect on current developments, share experiences, and collectively plan for stronger representation and meaningful participation of women within the structure of the union.”
In her welcoming remarks, she added, “The mining and energy industry has historically been male-dominated. Yet, through resilience, determination and solidarity, women have continued to break barriers and claim their rightful space in this sector. We are no longer just participants; we are leaders, decision-makers and agents of change.”
Diverse perspectives
The workshop brought together participants with diverse perspectives, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address challenges faced by women in the mining sector.
The keynote address was delivered by MP Justina Jonas, who spoke directly to the challenges and the path forward for women. She noted that the mining and energy sector “has historically been, and remains, male-dominated. Recognising this reality is not a weakness, but the necessary foundation for meaningful transformation.”
Jonas called on women to overcome their fears and step into leadership, stating that “women are capable of occupying the highest offices. What is required of us as women is confidence, courage and a conscious decision to step forward.”
She added, “The time for hesitation has passed. We must speak with confidence, step into leadership, and claim the spaces that belong to us.”
According to Hileni Malakia, MUN Women’s Desk secretary, the platform plays a critical role in addressing immediate concerns affecting women. “This year’s theme is ‘Rights, Justice, and Action for all women and girls’, and we will align with this theme. We brought women together to discuss issues affecting them, particularly in leadership, as many women are reluctant to take up space. Although progress has been made, challenges remain. Many women are still hesitant to step forward, and we need to prepare and support them.
“We have participants from all four regions - southern, central, western and northern parts of the country. We thank the MUN leadership for making this event possible. Soon, you will see us take up space as the formalised Women’s Desk of the Mineworkers Union of Namibia,” she said.
Through this platform aimed at empowering women in the sector, MUN remains committed to reflecting the needs of its members and strengthening internal structures to support and advance women.
