Women involvement in top police leadership: an adage untold

Since time immemorial, differentiating between the role of men and women in society was a straightforward exercise. Boys and girls were socialised to distinguish works that were associated with them, based on gender. To a considerable extent, society normalised the notion that there are duties assigned to women, and consequently excluding them from responsibilities of major impact. This societal norm was extended to the modern workplaces. By design, men dominated most workplace affairs. However, with the realisation that women bring to the table just as much as men do, this designed exclusion is starting to gradually dissipate – women’s leadership is being appreciated and welcomed in many sectors.

For instance, in the Namibian Police Force, numerous women occupy top positions where critical decisions are made. These women have proven themselves worthy of the positions because they have been effective in delivering their responsibilities and duties. Their strategic leadership fosters the robust involvement of more women in the service that has been dominated by men. With proven track records, the systemic barriers are tumbling, and NamPol is now more diverse as far as gender representation is concerned.

Apart from having a woman as the Deputy Inspector General, whose contribution has been felt in NamPol, many women have been entrusted with responsibilities in the top positions. For example, they oversee the affairs of the regions as Regional Commanders, Human Resources, Training and Development, Airwing, Gender, Public Relations, Traffic Law-Enforcement Directorates and First Divisions. They efficiently perform at these capacities, hence challenging gender exclusion norms.

The top women leaders, just like other professionals, strive to improve their skills. They take up leadership training and further education aimed at self-improvement.

Many women in the service hold academic degrees in various fields, and the diversity of their academic exposure makes them effective in law-enforcement.

The knowledge and skills enable them to tackle ubiquitous challenges of their assignments.

Thanks to the Inspector General of NamPol and his management for providing the policing environment with equal opportunities so that despite the barriers that impede women in their professional development, they have demonstrated resilience in their police leadership.

There are no doubts that when provided with the opportunity and proper mentorship, not only are they capable of excelling in their policing career, but can ignite innovation in the police service—an incredible ingredient for an effective NamPol organisation.

The contribution of women in NamPol’s strategic leadership is worth acknowledging and emulating.

In conclusion, it has taken an immense struggle to break all the barriers stacked against women. It is essential to let the progress that has been made in including women in top leaderships in all institutions, including NamPol, continue at a faster pace. When the potential of brilliant women is fully harnessed, Namibia will experience radical positive changes.