Sharp rise in child begging, Windhoek mayor warns of exploitation

Windhoek mayor Sakarias Uunona has raised alarm over the growing number of children begging in the city, warning that some are likely victims of exploitation.

"Over the past three years, groups of children, sometimes accompanied by adults, have been observed at intersections, shopping centres and other public spaces in Windhoek," Uunona said during a council meeting last week.

He noted that while some children initially sold traditional items, many now approach motorists and pedestrians begging for money or food.

The mayor said some of the children appear to "work" under adult supervision, with the adults remaining nearby while the children beg.

"In some cases, any money or food received is taken by the adults, raising serious concerns about the welfare and potential exploitation of these vulnerable children," he said.

Uunona said many of the children appear vulnerable, poorly clothed and in ill health, with signs of skin conditions and possible malnutrition, indicating an urgent need for social welfare, healthcare and child protection interventions.

He also warned that giving money or food directly to children worsens the problem.

"While well-intentioned, this practice unintentionally encourages children to remain on the streets," Uunona said.

He urged residents to support recognised welfare organisations instead, to ensure assistance reaches those in need and discourages exploitation.

Balanced response required

The mayor also warned that street begging poses other risks.

"Motorists are often approached at intersections, increasing accident risks, with some children already injured in such incidents."

Businesses have also received customer complaints and reported impacts on trade, while littering and waste accumulation in affected areas have placed additional pressure on municipal services.

The mayor said begging in public contravenes several municipal regulations relating to pedestrian obstruction, loitering, littering, public nuisance and unregulated street trading, while solicitation near busy roads may also conflict with provisions of the Road Traffic and Transport Act.

However, he emphasised that enforcement measures alone are not enough.

“The issue requires a balanced approach combining law enforcement, child protection and immigration management," Uunona said.

Uunona said the municipality previously worked with stakeholders to repatriate street children and accompanying adults to their countries or towns of origin.

However, many returned and resumed living on the streets.