Namibia Signs Agreement to Roll Out Gender-Responsive Planning Course

Namibia Signs Agreement to Roll Out Gender-Responsive Planning Course. A new step toward advancing gender equality in governance was taken today as MGECW Executive Director Lydia H. Indombo and NIPAM Executive Director Dr. Herold Murangi signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the rollout of the Gender-Responsive Planning and Budgeting (GRPB) Course. The programme will target Members of Parliament and civil servants, equipping them with the tools to integrate gender considerations into government processes.

The three-year programme, valued at N$1.08 million, is designed to strengthen institutional capacity across ministries and agencies. Developed with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the course will focus on embedding gender perspectives into planning, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring.

Officials emphasized that the initiative will enhance compliance with Cabinet directives on GRPB and promote the equitable allocation of public resources, ensuring that national development strategies reflect the needs of all citizens.

The agreement reaffirms Namibia’s commitment to gender equality as a pillar of sustainable development and good governance. By equipping policymakers and administrators with practical knowledge, the programme aims to create a more inclusive policy environment that supports both social and economic progress.

Speaking at the signing, both institutions highlighted the importance of collaboration in delivering the course effectively. The partnership between MGECW and NIPAM is expected to provide a structured framework for training, while also fostering accountability in the application of gender-responsive practices.

The rollout of the GRPB Course represents a significant milestone in Namibia’s ongoing efforts to mainstream gender across government operations. It is anticipated that the programme will not only strengthen institutional capacity but also contribute to building a governance culture that prioritizes fairness, inclusivity, and long-term national resilience.