Growing up without fathers

Ruach Elohim Foundation founder Ronel Peters says a major challenge faced by society today is that of fathers abandoning their children.

Founded in 2018, the foundation has received more than 60 babies since its inception, and currently accommodates 14 babies.

The centre offers an alternative to baby dumping by providing a ‘baby saver box’ in which mothers can safely leave their babies anonymously.

Once a baby is left, social workers are notified and the infant receives immediate medical care.

The foundation not only provides a haven for abandoned children, but also offers mothers counselling services.

“We can use this to save more vulnerable, precious babies in Namibia,” Peters said while receiving a N$92 000 donation from Ashburton Investments on Friday.

She said one of the foundation’s main challenges is that mothers are abandoned by their partners, leading to a generation growing up without fathers.

“No baby can ever choose their own fate. It is all in our hands,” she said.

Ruach Elohim means ‘breath of God’ and aims to tackle the rising issue of baby dumping, providing a sanctuary for abandoned infants and desperate mothers.

According to Peters, the foundation also raises awareness at schools, police stations, and hospitals about alternatives to baby dumping.

“We really strive to eliminate baby dumping in Namibia. I think there is no easier option than the one we offer,” she said.

Babies become adoptable after 30 days if unclaimed.

The centre says it offers a thorough process to ensure babies are matched with approved families.

Ashburton Investments Namibia raised N$92 000 through a crossfit exercise event in Windhoek and chose to donate the funds to the Ruach Elohim Foundation.

Ashburton Investments took part in the First Rand Challenge sporting event in September.

For every kilometre rowed and cycled, the company was sponsored and eventually collected N$92 000.

“Our mission is to do what matters. And that is why it gives us the immense honour to present this donation to help the foundation grow and go from strength to strength as they continue to do what matters,” Gert Grobler, the chief operating officer of Ashburton Investments, said at the event.

He said the foundation is “close to the hearts of many Namibians” – especially while baby dumping cases continue to rise.

Grobler said the foundation offers these babies a chance at life by providing them a safe and loving home, making a significant difference in the country.