GRB workshop kicks off in capital

WINDHOEK, 23 Apr – The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare on Monday opened a four-day workshop on gender responsive budgeting (GRB).
GRB aims to integrate clear gender perspectives within the context of the budgeting processes and analytical tools with a view to promoting gender responsive policies.
In a speech read on her behalf, Prime Minister (PM) Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila explained that gender analysis and gender responsive budgeting are critical budgeting tools that would enhance the capacity of the OPM to fulfil its mandate of improving the proficiency and effectiveness of public service.
She said gender analysis enhances the equity in budget allocation, gender specific prioritisation, economic efficiency and value for money.
“These efforts will help us to address a number of challenges including identifying resources across all offices, ministries and agencies,” she added.
The premier noted that since Namibia declared war on poverty, gender analysis will help to clearly highlight gender inequalities and to count accurately design specific interventions of reviewing policy, plans and budget priorities to address gender imbalances.
She further said GRB contributes towards realising gender equity to the recognition that the needs, preferences and interests of women often differ.
“It (GRB) is a catalyst to the achievements of good governance to improve the delivery of goods and services to women, men, girls and boys in a fair and responsive way,” Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said.
Participants will draft an action plan to institutionalise gender analysis and GRB in order to pave the way for its roll out.
The workshop ends Thursday.
(NAMPA)