Why we must defend the work of social workers

Recently Minister James Sankwasa made a troubling remark at the official recognition of the Hompa Eugen Kudumo event in Kavango West, suggesting that people should not seek help from social workers, especially unmarried social workers, for marital problems. Instead, he advised that such issues should be taken to parents and dealt with according to tradition. While tradition plays an important role in our society, this statement is not only misleading – it is dangerous and undermines the crucial work done by trained social work professionals in our country.First, we need to understand what social workers actually do. These are not just people who give advice or sit in offices waiting to be consulted. Social workers are trained professionals. They go through years of academic education, practical fieldwork, and ongoing learning to be able to handle a wide range of human problems – some of which can be deeply complex and emotionally painful. Whether they are married or unmarried has nothing to do with their skills, knowledge, or ability to provide support. Just like we trust a medical doctor to treat a sick patient regardless of whether the doctor has ever had the same illness, we must also trust social workers to handle social and emotional problems regardless of their personal marital status.Furthermore, many social workers are trained not only in modern approaches to counselling and support but also in traditional and indigenous practices. Social work in Namibia and other African countries has evolved to respect culture while also incorporating professional methods that can help individuals, couples, families, communities and the nation at large. It is therefore a mistake to suggest that seeking help from a social worker is a rejection of tradition. In many cases, it is an extension of it, an effort to solve problems with wisdom, professionalism and compassion.Safe spaceWe must also consider the context in which these comments were made: Namibia, like many other nations, faces a range of social challenges. Gender-based violence continues to destroy lives. Mental health issues, including depression and suicide, are on the rise. Many families struggle with poverty, unemployment and inequality. These are not problems that can be solved simply by telling people to talk to their parents. In fact, sometimes parents or family members may be part of the problem, especially in cases of abuse, neglect, or harmful traditional practices. In these situations, social workers provide a safe and neutral space where people can speak freely, find support, and receive help based on human rights and dignity.By discouraging people from going to social workers, the minister is not only misinforming the public, but he is also putting vulnerable people at risk. We know that many people, especially women and children, suffer in silence because they do not know where to turn. If we now begin to close the door on one of the few professional services available to them, we may push them further into isolation, fear and harm.The minister’s comments also reinforce the stigma that often surrounds mental health and social services. There is already a deep misunderstanding in many communities that going to a social worker means you have failed, or that you are weak, or that you are inviting public shame. But the truth is the opposite. Asking for help is a sign of strength. It means you care enough about your life, your family, and your future to seek support and solutions.We need to stop viewing social workers as last-resort helpers or as people who only get involved when things fall apart. They are an essential part of our national development. Social workers work in schools to support children, in hospitals to guide patients, in communities to prevent violence, and in government departments to create policies that promote welfare and justice. They are trained to look at the bigger picture – how poverty, inequality, discrimination and trauma affect people's lives – and to work toward solutions that uplift the entire society.Support social workers Instead of condemning or disparaging the use of social workers, our leaders should be promoting their services and ensuring they are better resourced. Many social workers are overworked, underpaid and stretched too thin across large communities. We need more of them, not less. We need to encourage young people to study social work and to see it as a valuable and respected profession that changes lives and makes a difference in our society.In the end, tradition and professional services do not have to be enemies. They can work hand in hand. But we must not let outdated ideas or personal beliefs stand in the way of progress, especially when lives are at stake. Leaders have a responsibility to speak with care, with knowledge, and with respect for the professionals who are holding up the social fabric of our country.Let us reject the idea that only parents or culture can solve complex personal marital issues. Let us support all those who dedicate their lives to helping others heal, grow and thrive. And let us proudly say: social workers matter in Namibia!

Why we must defend the work of social workers

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

Please login to leave a comment

Why we must defend the work of social workers

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

Please login to leave a comment

Subscription Required to Access Content ×

Login

Subscription Required to Access Content