The Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) has hosted its first Legal Champion Award in the capital today. 

Director of the LAC, Toni Hancox, says that despite financial challenges the centre faces, like any other non-government organisation, they believe this is an opportunity for new beginnings.

Hancox says the LAC has worked for decades to protect the rights of women, children, workers and marginalised communities across the country.

She says that these awards symbolise solidarity and are a visible reminder that justice is a shared responsibility.

"Africa has always had a culture of giving. We do not have to wait for help to come from far away. We can help each other. And that spirit is called Ubuntu. I am because we are. If we believe in access to justice for all, then we must protect the institutions that make it possible."

Two awards were handed over, with the first being to lawyer Christiaan Cronje, who was commended for his financial support and keeping the legal information website functioning.

"Thank you to Tony and to your team for what you do and the contribution you make to the community. We need more people like you do. Be careful of those around us. So thank you for that, and thank you for having the impact on society that you do."

A teacher from Rogate Primary School in Omaruru, Gelda Waterboer, was commended for her work on social media, having helped the LAC to reach over 170,000 people locally and internationally.

Waterboer, who is locally well-known for a song she sang to learners about private parts in an effort to raise awareness, was unfortunately unable to attend the ceremony.
She, however, expressed gratitude to the LAC for their unwavering support in protecting the rights of Namibians, particularly the vulnerable.