Tsumkwe may be a remote settlement; however, it is a place where untold stories of resilience can be uncovered – stories that have transformed lives and instilled hope for a better tomorrow.
The recent trip to Tsumkwe's Palms for Life Cleaning Campaign by UNICEF delegates and prospective UN donors revealed stories that changed lives.
There, the programme's participants shared emotional stories of how the initiative restored their dignity and reignited the hope of those who once lived on the streets.
The campaign, which began last year, currently has 29 participants who are keeping the Tsumkwe settlement clean.
Although the project only provides food parcels and toiletries as support, participants say it has given them a renewed sense of purpose, belonging, and hope for a better future.
Several participants spoke openly about their experiences of their lives after dropping out of school and how the opportunity to contribute to their community has transformed their lives.
Erastus Mukonda, a participant, said, "I started getting into trouble at the age of 15. I found myself caught up in drug and alcohol abuse to the point where it affected my everyday life. I would often get into fights at school and in bars when I was under the influence, and I was also disrespectful to everyone around me. My parents tried very hard to talk to me, but I couldn't change my behaviour. As a result, I failed my Grade 9, and the sad part is that all my friends moved on to the next grade."
Di ||Ao Rudolf, another participant, shared, "My father left my mother when I was eight years old. After that, things were fine. I completed my Grade 7 and went on to Grade 8, where I passed. I was supposed to progress to Grade 9, but then, at the age of 16 in 2017, I became pregnant, which led me to drop out of school."
Another participant, Muyambango Issak, shared with the delegates how being part of the Palms or Life programme has transformed his life, making him a more responsible individual. "I am happy for who I am," he stated.
The UNICEF delegates and prospective donors were deeply moved by the testimonies shared by the participants, commending them for their resilience and determination.
They encouraged them to continue working hard, believe in themselves, and remain committed to building a better future despite the challenges they have faced.
"The stories you are sharing come from your soul and will remain with me forever. You have endured so much and demonstrated incredible resilience. UNICEF embodies resilience; it is about persevering and not giving up," said Karen Barnaby, a UNICEF delegate.
The cleaning campaign coordinator, Paulus Ndara, said their aim is to take responsibility and accountability for others while motivating them through their work so that they, too, can change their lives.
He added that young people can easily change if they see transparency and a positive example from someone else.