Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security’s Executive Director, Etienne Maritz, has reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to easing the plight of forcibly displaced persons, highlighting that the country goal to integrate refugees into national socio-economic systems.
“Namibia follows a welcoming and inclusive refugee policy, offering access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and employment. The country aims to integrate refugees into its broader social and economic systems,” he said.
Maritz revealed that Namibia is home to 6,582 refugees and asylum seekers, most of whom reside in the Osire Refugee Settlement in the Otjozondjupa Region. He disclosed that most of these individuals come from other African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, Somalia, and Zimbabwe.
“As a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and the 1969 OAU Refugee Convention, Namibia remains committed to upholding the rights of refugees and asylum seekers in accordance with both international and national laws. Through the Osire Refugee Settlement, the Government, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other partners, continues to provide essential services and support to displaced persons seeking refuge within our borders,” Maritz added.
Maritz made these remarks in commemoration of International Refugee Day, observed annually on 20 June. This year, the day was commemorated under the theme “Solidarity with Refugees.”
“International Refugee Day is a time to honour the courage, strength and perseverance of millions of refugees worldwide. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the plight of forcibly displaced persons and to recognise the positive contributions they make to the host countries that offer them protection and hope. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm Namibia’s commitment to the protection and humane treatment of all persons forced to flee conflict, persecution or violence,” he said.
