Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare shelters 347 survivors of violence and trafficking

The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare has provided shelter to 347 survivors of gender-based violence, child abuse, and trafficking over the past year, offering counselling and safe accommodation. Gender Minister Emma Kantema revealed these figures during the ministry's 2026/27 budget presentation, noting that N$140.3 million of the N$417 million allocation is for childcare and social protection. This funding supports the Child Care and Protection Act, psychosocial services, and shelter for survivors. The ministry subsidizes 22 private and non-governmental care facilities, including children's homes and two shelters, accommodating 520 children. Additionally, counselling and material support were provided to children in need nationwide, and 5,121 children across 14 regions received psychosocial support from the ministry's social workers. To enhance services, 21 social workers were recruited in the 2025/26 financial year. The ministry also introduced mental health sessions for staff to prevent burnout. Furthermore, 329 children living and working on the streets were integrated into 31 boarding schools in four regions, and 20,000 community members were reached through outreach programs, including men's conferences. Kantema highlighted poverty, alcohol abuse, and harmful cultural practices as drivers of GBV and child abuse, stating the ministry plans to expand awareness campaigns and community-based interventions to address these root causes.