Namibia’s President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for balanced efforts in empowering both boys and girls, emphasizing that national development depends on the progress of all citizens.

Speaking during a public lecture at the University of Dar es Salaam titled “Inspiring Women to Break Barriers in Leadership Positions: A Personal Experience,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah reflected on her leadership journey and Namibia’s strides in gender equality. The event was part of her two-day working visit to Tanzania.

While acknowledging the success of initiatives to empower girls—highlighting that the majority of graduates at the University of Namibia are now women—she expressed concern over the growing number of boys falling behind.

“We invested heavily in the girl child and they are doing very well,” she said. “But we must also pay attention to our boys—they are in trouble nowadays.”

She urged a shift toward inclusive empowerment, warning that true societal progress cannot be achieved if nearly half the population is left behind.