What is the inception date of The Girl Guides Association of Namibia?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

The Girl Guides Association of Namibia

The Girl Guides Association of Namibia (GGAN) is a non-governmental organization that aims to empower girls and young women to become responsible citizens and leaders in their communities. The organization provides a safe space for girls to learn new skills, develop their potential, and make a positive contribution to society. Through its various programs and initiatives, GGAN strives to promote gender equality, social justice, and human rights.

Historical background of the Girl Guides

The Girl Guides movement was founded in England in 1909 by Robert Baden-Powell, a military officer who had served in the Boer War. The movement was inspired by Baden-Powell’s experiences of training soldiers in scouting skills, and his desire to apply these skills to the development of young people. The Girl Guides movement quickly spread to other countries, including Namibia, where it was established in the early 1920s. The movement was initially focused on outdoor activities and practical skills, but it soon evolved to incorporate a wider range of activities, including community service, leadership development, and advocacy for social issues.

The inception date of the organization

The Girl Guides Association of Namibia was officially established in 1928, although there is evidence of Guiding activities in the country as early as 1923. The first Guide company in Namibia was formed in Windhoek, and it was soon followed by other companies in other parts of the country. The establishment of GGAN was made possible by the efforts of a group of women who believed in the values and principles of the Girl Guides movement. These women were committed to promoting the development and empowerment of girls and young women in Namibia, and they saw Guiding as a powerful tool for achieving these goals.

Founders and early leadership of GGAN

The founders of GGAN included women from various backgrounds and professions, including teachers, nurses, and social workers. One of the key figures in the early years of the organization was Alice Mertens, who served as the first National Commissioner of GGAN from 1931 to 1942. Mertens was a trained nurse and had a deep commitment to the welfare of girls and young women in Namibia. Under her leadership, GGAN grew rapidly, and new Guide companies were established in towns and villages across the country. Other early leaders of GGAN included Elizabeth Diergaardt, Anna Kritzinger, and Wilhelmina van Zyl, all of whom played important roles in shaping the organization and its programs.

The role of GGAN in Namibian society

Since its inception, GGAN has played a vital role in promoting the development and empowerment of girls and young women in Namibia. The organization has provided opportunities for girls to learn new skills, develop their potential, and contribute to their communities. Through its various programs and initiatives, GGAN has also been involved in advocacy for social issues, including gender equality, HIV/AIDS awareness, and community development. The organization has worked closely with other NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations to promote the rights and well-being of girls and young women in Namibia.

Challenges faced by GGAN over the years

Despite its many achievements, GGAN has faced numerous challenges over the years. One of the main challenges has been the lack of resources, including funding, equipment, and facilities. This has made it difficult for the organization to expand its programs and reach more girls in remote and marginalized communities. Another challenge has been the limited participation of boys and men in the organization, which has made it difficult to promote gender equality and address gender-based violence. Additionally, GGAN has faced cultural and social barriers, including resistance to the idea of girls and young women participating in outdoor activities and leadership roles.

GGAN’s contribution to youth development

Despite these challenges, GGAN has made a significant contribution to the development and empowerment of girls and young women in Namibia. The organization has provided a safe and supportive environment for girls to learn new skills, build self-confidence, and become effective leaders. Through its various programs and initiatives, GGAN has encouraged girls to take an active role in their communities, and to work towards positive social change. The organization has also provided opportunities for girls to develop their creativity, their sense of adventure, and their appreciation for nature.

The impact of GGAN’s programs on girls

The impact of GGAN’s programs on girls has been significant and far-reaching. Many girls who have participated in GGAN activities have gone on to become leaders in their communities, and to make a positive contribution to society. They have developed skills in areas such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making, which have helped them to succeed in their personal and professional lives. They have also developed a strong sense of self-worth and self-esteem, which has enabled them to overcome obstacles and challenges.

The growth and expansion of GGAN

Over the years, GGAN has grown and expanded its programs to reach more girls and young women in Namibia. The organization has established new Guide companies in remote and marginalized communities, and has developed new programs to address emerging social issues. GGAN has also worked closely with other NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations to promote the rights and well-being of girls and young women in Namibia and beyond. Today, GGAN remains a vital force for youth development and empowerment in Namibia, and continues to be a model for other organizations around the world.

The global reach of GGAN

While GGAN is primarily focused on the needs of girls and young women in Namibia, the organization has also had a global impact. GGAN is a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), which is the largest voluntary movement dedicated to girls and young women in the world. Through its membership in WAGGGS, GGAN has been able to participate in international activities, exchange ideas and experiences with other organizations, and contribute to the global movement for girls’ empowerment.

Conclusion: GGAN’s legacy and future goals

The Girl Guides Association of Namibia has a proud history of promoting the development and empowerment of girls and young women in Namibia. The organization has overcome numerous challenges over the years, and has made a significant contribution to the well-being and success of countless girls and young women. As GGAN looks to the future, its goals remain focused on promoting gender equality, social justice, and human rights, and on providing opportunities for girls to develop their potential and become leaders in their communities. GGAN’s legacy is one of empowerment, resilience, and dedication, and its future is bright and full of promise.

References and further reading

  • Girl Guides Association of Namibia. (2019). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.ggan.org.na/about-us/
  • World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. (2019). Who We Are. Retrieved from https://www.wagggs.org/en/who-we-are/
  • Baden-Powell, R. S. S. (1918). Girl Guiding. London: Pearson.
  • Mertens, A. (1947). The Girl Guide Movement in South West Africa. Cape Town: Oxford University Press.
Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

Leave a Comment