Press for progress in Namibia

Poiyah Media in collaboration with Khaitago Foundation celebrated International Women’s Day on 8 March at the Opera House with over 40 guests in attendance.
Octavia Tsibes
Brainchild of Lorraine Kondombolo, the night was filled with faith, hope and empowerment. Kondombolo revealed to the audience that this initiative was done for her belated sister that could never tell her own story. Women from all walks of life gathered and the event was graced by the presence of the special advisor on Africa for the United Nations, Ms. Bience Gawanas.

At the occasion, Founder of Poiyah Media, Ilke Platt-Akwenye, delivered the keynote address and themed her story under the title “Gracefully Broken”. She emphasized that perspective is critical. “Sometimes God forcefully removes us from toxic environments to allow us to see things clearer.” She further stressed the importance holding onto the foundation of family and embracing good and healthy standards. “Never allow anyone or any situation to change your morals and values” she mentioned.”

Platt-Akwenye also cautioned that nobody owes any explanation to every situation. “Society will always judge you no matter what and as women we still owe it to our kids to allow the storm to settle in a dignified manner”, she highlighted. In conclusion, Platt-Akwenye inspired the fully packed gathering by mentioning that as a victim of Gender Based Violence (GBV), she has learnt that forgiveness is a process. “It is a choice that you need to make over and over every day until you are free of hurt”, she noted.

Chief Inspector Kauna Shikwambi from the Namibian Police Force gave statistics of over 1000 from the previous year ranging from rape, passion killing and assault cases. She urged the nation to stand up, stating that society needs to speak up. “As you go, make a change, press for progress and report any kind of domestic violence cases to the police near you.”

Speaker after speaker, Albertina Nande, author of the book ‘The Untold’ also shared her life experience and journey to recovery. She highlighted what she termed “the turning point”, a sentiment from her to encourage others to hold onto the purpose of love and healing process. “There is life beyond your pain and circumstances, embrace yourself and press towards progress”, she maintained.

The event which commemorates the movement for women’s right was glimmered with enlightened performances from local performers such as Sunny Boy, the poetic Ashwyn Mberi and Anne Hambuda as well as the Da-Mai Dance Ensemble.