Namibia joined the rest of the world in commemorating International Widows Day, a United Nations observance held annually on 23 June to raise awareness about discrimination and hardships faced by widows globally.
This year's event brought together widows and orphans from Hope Village under the theme "Orphans in Need", highlighting the often-overlooked struggles of children left vulnerable following the loss of a parent.
The event, held in the capital, was filled with moments of reflection and solidarity, as widows shared their experiences and orphans spoke out about the challenges they continue to face.
Christophina Martins is a young orphan residing at Hope Village who shared her experiences.
"Oftentimes it's not always easy. At times, you may feel as though a part of your heart is gone, as if the world has forgotten you. But at Hope Village, I found a place where I cannot be forgotten. I was found, I was loved, and I was seen. Every smile from the caregivers, every warm meal, every bedtime story, and every heart gave me hope again. You turn a place that could have been full of sadness into a home that is full of laughter, safety, and dreams."
UN Country Representative Erica Golsan reaffirmed the international community's commitment to supporting widows and vulnerable children.
"The UN in Namibia stands beside you not just in words but in concrete action. We see you not only as community leaders but also as human rights defenders, as educators, and as voices for children who might otherwise go unheard. But as we can see, Christofina is lending her voice to this advocacy as well, and this gives us motivation to continue to do the work that we are doing."
Joyce Nangula spoke on behalf of Penehupifo Pohamba, the president and patron of the Empowerment of Widows Organisation of Namibia (IONA).
"IONA's mission is simple yet profound: to be the voice for the voiceless, saving, supporting, encouraging, empowering, and uplifting our beneficiaries. Although IONA encompasses widowers and orphans as well, our mission resonates deeply with the vision of KUANA and similar organisations. We are all united in our shared purpose to bring visibility and dignity."
The Acting Executive Director of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Nicholas Mbingeneeko, said, "That is why, under the leadership of Her Excellency President, we will continue to strengthen coordination of social protection programmes, expanding child grants, improving birth registration, investing in early childhood development, and partnering with traditional authorities to end harmful practices that perpetuate gender inequalities."