Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) deputy secretary Christine Haindaka has called for the protection of children following the recent arrest of a mother from Ongenga village in the Oshana region.
Oshana police spokesperson inspector Frieda Shikole told journalists on Tuesday that a 37-year-old woman has been accused of raping her nine-year-old son before burning him on his cheeks.
Haindaka said this act not only violates the trust between the parent and child but also exposes serious vulnerabilities within the Namibian society.
Haindaka stated: “To dismantle the foundations of such heinous crimes, we must embark on a thorough exploration of the societal, mental health, educational and economic dynamics at play.”
She said there is a need for a holistic approach to address the root causes of child abuse and to uphold the country’s child protection legislation.
“We must rigorously uphold our child protection legislation, delivering justice and affirming our steadfast dedication to the safety of our youngest citizens,” Haindaka said.
In addition to legal measures, Haindaka said there is also a need for increased support for victims and educational programmes on child abuse prevention.
She invited all Namibians to join the fight against child abuse.
“We are presented with the grave task of shaping a future where no child in Namibia fears harm.”
“Together, let us erect a fortress of safety for our children, a legacy of protection that will stand unwavering through the ages,” she said
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