| The Girl Guides Association of Namibia has a rich history that dates back to the 1920s, when the country was under South African administration. The movement was started by a group of women who recognized the need for a space where girls could develop life skills, leadership qualities, and self-confidence. In 1928, the first Guide company was established in Windhoek, which became the starting point for the spread of the movement across the country. During this time, Girl Guides in Namibia were affiliated with the Girl Guides Association of South Africa. After Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990, the movement became known as the Girl Guides Association of Namibia. The organization continued to grow and develop, and in 1998, it became a full member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Today, the Girl Guides Association of Namibia has a membership of over 5,000 girls and young women, with programs and activities designed to help them develop essential life skills, leadership qualities, and a sense of community service. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering girls and young women to reach their full potential. |
 Girl Guides Singapore |
Development of the Namibian Movement
Guiding was established in the Territory of South West Africa (known as Namibia since 1968) in 1923 as a Region of the Girl Guides Association of South Africa. During the years 1985 to 1990 when the political independence of Namibia was being discussed by the world community, the Girl Guides Association of South Africa assisted the region of Namibia in its preparation to become an independent organisation.
In 1990 when Namibia became an independent sovereign country, the Girl Guides Association of Namibia was established and in 1993 became an Associate Member of WAGGGS. In 1999 the Girl Guides Association of Namibia was granted Full WAGGGS Membership. The national headquarters are based in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia.
Since then, the Association has worked steadily towards the development of its own structure and the Namibianisation of its program. In 2003, a new structure was approved and the Association has since worked towards the realization of that structure.
In 2007 the revised Constitution was approved by WAGGGS. This was followed by the revision of the Terms of Reference which details the leadership profiles of the Association. In December 2008, the Training Scheme was accredited by WAGGGS. Attention has been given to the training of young guide leaders as the future leaders of the Association. Several young guide leaders have recently attended JLS seminars, as well as Training for Trainers and Co-operative Workshops of the South South Partnership. They have also been part of the delegations to Africa Region meetings and to World Conferences. The value of these experiences has already been shown in the Association.
Building on our strong foundation spanning over 100 years,
Girl Guides Namibia continues to empower girls to achieve their fullest potential.