By: Loise Shiimi
Speaking at the State of the Region Address (SORA), Ohangwena Region Governor, Kadiva Hamutumwa, announced the government funding of 13 students with disabilities to further their studies.
While this funding, provided during a recent review period, represents an opportunity and serves as support for the students, Hamutumwa noted that numerous students with disabilities still encounter considerable barriers when seeking enrollment in mainstream schools.
She highlighted critical shortcomings in the implementation of policies intended to assist these students.
“These barriers include inadequate infrastructure, a lack of specialised resources, insufficient teacher training, and persistent stigma and cultural biases surrounding disability. These factors combine to prevent many children from accessing or continuing their formal education,” she stated.
During the same period, the Disability Affairs team conducted home visits to 373 individuals living with disabilities throughout the region.
Hamutumwa reported that guidance was provided to address their individual needs and circumstances, however noting that some of their living conditions remain unsatisfactory.
“Many individuals lack sufficient access to food, clean bedding, or essential assistive devices like wheelchairs and orthotic boots. A substantial number of homebound individuals with disabilities are left unattended for extended periods, leading to unmet care needs and social isolation,” she remarked.
In response to these challenges, Hamutumwa shared that the relevant office provided support to 74 individuals with disabilities, distributing vital items such as milk, diapers, portable toilets, and hygiene supplies. However, 224 more people remain on the official waiting list to receive these support packages.
These distributions align with Namibia’s established social protection policy for individuals with disabilities, which mandates the provision of essential items.
Regarding grant monitoring and referrals, the governor reported that over 140 individuals were referred for disability grant consideration, with 30 approved to receive said grants.
