Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Shelleygan Petersen
Published on 2024-04-10 17:00:00
The government’s special feeding program has been instrumental in providing food supplements to marginalized communities, particularly the San, Ovatue, and Ovatjimba communities, who are facing severe socio-economic challenges and impoverishment. This program aims to address issues of gender equality, poverty eradication, and social welfare, as highlighted by Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare Minister Doreen Sioka.
Minister Sioka recently presented a budget of N$7.9 billion, with a significant portion allocated to social grants, including N$280 million dedicated to the marginalized communities’ program. She emphasized that 32,617 households from these communities have benefited from the special feeding program, with over 2,800 children receiving educational support through the program.
For the 2024/2025 financial year, an allocation of N$280 million has been made to support marginalized communities, focusing on education support, livelihood initiatives, funeral services, and the San feeding program. Additionally, N$43.5 million has been set aside for the ministry’s program to support persons with disabilities, including providing disability grants to 50,291 individuals.
The ministry’s efforts also extend to addressing issues of violence and abuse, with social workers attending to 1,753 children who have experienced such challenges. Last year, 18 victims were accommodated at shelters, and awareness campaigns on gender-based violence, violence against children, and trafficking reached over 18,000 individuals.
Social protection initiatives have also been a priority, with 8,225 households and 37,053 individuals benefiting from conditional basic income grants, formerly known as the Food Bank. The ministry has rolled out the Basic Income Grant in all 14 regions, prioritizing urban and peri-urban poor communities.
The budget breakdown includes N$12 million allocated to the development budget and N$7.9 billion for operational expenses. Social grants have been crucial in supporting 373,017 orphans and vulnerable children, ensuring their well-being and access to essential resources.
In conclusion, the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of marginalized communities, persons with disabilities, victims of violence, and vulnerable children is evident in the allocations and programs outlined by Minister Sioka. These initiatives aim to uplift and support those facing challenging circumstances, promoting social welfare and equality across Namibia.
Read the original article on The Namibian
