Nearly 11 000 San receive national documents

More than 10 900 members of the San community have received national documents through a targeted government outreach programme.This marks a significant step towards greater inclusion and access to public services for one of Namibia’s most marginalised groups.According to the home affairs ministry, a total of 10 932 San individuals have been registered within the first 24 days of the initiative, which kicked off on 23 June and is set to run until 30 August.The outreach, spearheaded by the ministry in collaboration with the Office of the President’s division of marginalised communities and the gender equality ministry, aims to reach at least 16 000 San individuals across 63 constituencies.The nationwide effort covers key regions including Oshikoto, Omusati, Oshana, Otjozondjupa, Hardap, Omaheke, Ohangwena, Kavango West, Kavango East and Kunene.“This initiative is about ensuring that no one is left behind. Identity is not a privilege; it is a right," said Ettienne Maritz, home affairs ministry executive director."By bringing services closer to the people, especially those in remote areas, we are restoring dignity and creating pathways for access to education, healthcare, and other basic services," he added.Identity and protectionThe services provided through the outreach include the registration of births and identity documents, as well as applications for lost or damaged documents such as marriage and death certificates.It also provides for the correction of personal particulars. Additionally, previously uncollected IDs are distributed.Social protection services are also being facilitated on-site by the division for marginalised communities and the gender ministry, with all services offered at no cost.The San community, many of whom live in remote areas with limited access to government offices, often face administrative and logistical hurdles in securing identity documents.Community mobilisation criticalRecognising the communication barriers in some of the targeted areas, the ministry has appealed to the public to help spread the word, noting that word-of-mouth remains one of the most effective channels for reaching isolated communities.Traditional leaders, local councillors, civil society organisations and community-based groups have also been called upon to guide individuals to registration points and assist in gathering supporting documents. Where such documentation is lacking, special provisions have been made to assist applicants on a case-by-case basis.

Nearly 11 000 San receive national documents

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-03

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Nearly 11 000 San receive national documents

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-03

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