WINDHOEK, Namibia – In a unique effort to challenge gender stereotypes and raise awareness about gender-based violence, the United Nations in Namibia, the Delegation of the European Union (EU) in Namibia, the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, the Namibia Football Association (NFA), The Namibian, Adforce Namibia, and Debmarine Namibia joined forces to host the "Men’s Cooking Competition for Gender Equality" at UN House on 22 November 2024.
Held as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the event saw teams of men from various organizations competing to create the most delicious and nutritious dishes. The competition aimed to break down the misconception that cooking is a skill only associated with women, and to encourage men to take an active role in promoting equality, both in the kitchen and in their broader communities.
In her welcoming remarks, UN Namibia Resident Coordinator, H.E. Hopolang Phororo, emphasized that the cook-off was not just a one-time event, but a call to action for men to take a stand against gender-based violence every day. “This cook-off aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2025-2029, which prioritizes strengthened protection systems, improved data management, and expanded behavior change interventions to combat GBV. The UNSDCF emphasizes inclusive, evidence-based approaches to build resilient communities and ensure no one is left behind,” she stated.
Ambassador H.E. Ana Beatriz Martins of the EU Delegation to Namibia, reiterated the European Union's commitment to combating gender-based violence, stressing the need to challenge the normalization of gender inequality and violence in all forms – whether online or offline, in Europe or in partner countries. “The EU’s commitment is clear: to champion gender equality and ensure that every individual, regardless of background, can live free from violence and discrimination,” she stated.
UNFPA Namibia Representative, Ms. Erika Goldson, expressed gratitude to all the partners involved, noting that the event provided a platform to engage men in the fight for gender equality. "Men have an important role to play in promoting equality, both in their homes and their communities," she said. “This event demonstrates that men can be active agents of change in the fight against gender-based violence.”
The competition was judged by former Miss Universe, Michelle McLean, and Louis Maruwasa from Adforce Namibia. After careful consideration, the judges declared a tie, with both the Namibia Football Association and UN Namibia emerging as winners for their outstanding culinary creations.
The competition was supported by the EU and UNFPA Gender Equality/Combating GBV project. The project focuses on preventing GBV and promoting the rights of women and girls to live free from violence. The project works to improve coordination, enhance service provision, engage communities in GBV prevention, and promote gender equality. Additionally, it strengthens data systems to ensure that GBV policies and programs are based on solid evidence.
