Namibia support over 200 street children from Angola

Namibia said that it has supported more than 200 children, many of them believed to be from Angola’s Mwila tribe, who have been engaged in street vending.

Etienne Maritz, executive director of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, said in a statement on Wednesday.

He said the children have been relocated to Ondangwa National Youth Service Centre for care to facilitate their reunification with their family.

He also added that at the centre, the children are receiving essential services to include food, shelter, and medical care.

The center is also working on identifying and reuniting the children with their families, Maritz said.

According to him, the initiative aims to protect the welfare of the children and address issues related to child labor.

The relocation is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in Namibia, Maritz said.

“The government is committed to safeguarding the rights of all children and ensuring they are provided with the necessary care and protection.”

“The Namibian government is working closely with Angolan counterparts to ensure that the children can return to their families as soon as possible,” he said.

The public is urged to report any suspected cases of human trafficking or child exploitation to the relevant authorities.

“The government shall ensure that the children are returned to their parents and family members in dignity,” Maritz said.