Africa-Press – Namibia. Placido Hilukilwa
THE Police Women Network in Oshana Region marked 16 years of existence on Thursday, as the Namibian Police Force continues to show commitment to gender equality, inclusivity, and the empowerment of women in its ranks.
Oshana alone has 625 female police officers, including reservists.
The region boasts two female deputy commissioners in strategic roles: one heads the Crime Prevention Division and the other commands the Border Infrastructure Protection Division.
There are also seven female chief inspectors, 14 senior inspectors, 30 inspectors, 30 warrant officers, and 50 sergeants.
The Logistics and Information Communication Technology subdivisions are headed by female chief inspectors, and a female senior inspector leads the police legal services subdivision in the region.
The Special Reserve Force in Oshana is also commanded by a female chief inspector.
Four police stations in Oshana have female station commanders — one chief inspector and three inspectors.
Deputy Commissioner Nico Steenkamp revealed the figures during a gathering of the Oshana Police Women Network in Oshakati on Thursday. He presented a speech on positive leadership and equal consideration in the promotion of female officers.
“These figures are not mere statistics. They represent strength, resilience, professionalism, and a growing force of capable women contributing meaningfully to law enforcement and community safety,” Steenkamp said.
He said the numbers show that NamPol is steadily embracing equal consideration in promotions and leadership development.
Steenkamp said: “These achievements are not accidental. They are the result of deliberate efforts to empower women by encouraging them to pursue leadership, providing equal opportunities for promotion, supporting academic advancement and continuous professional development, and entrusting them with decision-making responsibilities.”
Beyond national duties, female officers from Oshana have also served under UN peacekeeping missions, contributing to global peace and security.
“We are encouraged by the upcoming UN-SAAT test scheduled for next week, where more of our female officers will have the opportunity to qualify for international deployment. This enhances their professional growth and elevates the reputation of NamPol and Namibia,” said Steenkamp.
He urged the force to continue supporting, uplifting, and empowering women in policing to ensure future generations inherit a force that is inclusive, progressive, and reflective of the society it serves.
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