Staff Reporter
LIFELINE/Childline Namibia has launched its latest Counselling Centre Data Report, presenting critical data and insights into counselling and child protection services across the country. The report, based on information gathered through helplines and case management interventions, provides a detailed picture of the challenges faced by children and the impact of support services in all 14 regions.
Speaking at the launch, Israel Tjizake, UNICEF Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager, delivering remarks on behalf of UNICEF Representative Samuel Ocran, expressed deep concern over the report’s findings, which reveal a high number of abuse cases involving babies and young children aged 0–9. He stressed that the report should serve as a call to action for all stakeholders to unite in building a safer, violence-free Namibia for every child.
Photos: Unicef Namibia
“This launch is a testament to our combined efforts to gather accurate information and credible evidence on what interventions work best to protect children from all forms of violence and abuse,” Tjizake said.
Lifeline/Childline Director Nicolette Bessinger described the report as “more than just numbers on a page” but rather a reflection of the real experiences, voices, and struggles of children across Namibia. She emphasised that the findings should be used as a powerful tool to inform policy, improve practices, and create a safer, more supportive environment for children.
During the event, Lifeline/Childline also handed over branded headrest covers to Pendapala Nakathingo, Secretary General of the Namibia Bus and Taxi Association (NABTA). Nakathingo welcomed the initiative, highlighting the taxi industry’s broad reach and its potential to help spread vital messages about child protection and gender-based violence.
“NABTA is proud to partner with Lifeline/Childline to raise awareness and share important information through these headrest covers in taxis,” Nakathingo said. “We want passengers, children, youth, caregivers, and communities to know about available support services and feel encouraged to contact the helpline number displayed,” Nakathingo said.
Bessinger concluded by urging all stakeholders to use the report’s insights to drive meaningful change and ensure that every Namibian child can grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
