Legal power to the people: LAC, EU back San communities

The Legal Assistance Centre (LAC), in partnership with the European Union (EU), completed a four-day legal empowerment programme in Tsumkwe, Otjozondjupa Region, from 8 to 11 July 2025. The initiative formed part of an EU-funded project focused on strengthening legal awareness and human rights protections among San communities.“This partnership with the LAC and the Office of the Ombudsman highlights our commitment to ensuring that Namibia’s most marginalised communities, such as the San, are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and institutional support they need to claim and defend their rights,” said EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins.The programme was led by LAC’s lead programme coordinator, Corinna van Wyk, alongside team members Santos Joas and Lukeno Hangala.For the workshop, San paralegals from across the country came together to share experiences, learn more about their rights as citizens, and receive training in land and environmental law, as well as Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). The Office of the Ombudsman also held public education sessions and accepted complaints from community members, highlighting the principle that justice should not be limited to courtrooms or urban centres.To reach an even wider audience, paralegals participated in community radio engagements on !Ha Radio Station, where they spoke in San dialects about legal rights and access to justice. A mobile legal advice clinic was also set up at the Nyae Nyae Conservancy Office, offering free legal support to walk-in clients. In addition, outreach teams visited nearby San settlements to engage directly with residents and better understand their legal needs.By the end of the programme, San paralegals had strengthened their legal knowledge, gained hands-on community advocacy experience, and expanded their networks with key oversight institutions, laying the groundwork for sustained collaboration in promoting access to justice.This outreach effort shows that real justice starts with empowering communities. Through continued partnerships and local engagement, all Namibians especially those most marginalised, can be supported in claiming and defending their rights.

Legal power to the people: LAC, EU back San communities

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-10-21

Please login to leave a comment

Legal power to the people: LAC, EU back San communities

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-10-21

Please login to leave a comment

Login