Windhoek

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Namibia).

Windhoek is the capital of Namibia and is located in the centre of the country. With a population of around 430,000, it is Namibia’s biggest city and it has been growing even further in recent years. It is at the heart of all economic and political activity and many people come to the city in hope for a better life. However, reality looks different for many people, as unemployment remains high. Many families end up living in impoverished outskirts of the city where infrastructure is limited and violence is common. Children growing up in these areas of the city are at particular risk and education levels are poor. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS is also high in these densely populated parts of town.

Since 1985, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Windhoek.

10%
Of wealthiest people get half of the country’s income

Inequality in the city

Namibia remains one of the most unequal countries in the world in terms of wealth distribution, and this is clearly visible here in Windhoek. The richest 10% of the population in Namibia receive over 50% of the country's total income, while the poorest 10% receive just over 1%. This means that many families in the country live in a very poor economic situation and that there are large differences between the life chances of children from different parts of society. Poorer children often do not have access to basic sanitation, do not get enough to eat to develop healthily and have fewer opportunities to get an education.

80%
Of people in Windhoek are unemployed

Unemployment

Windhoek is Namibia’s biggest city, and it is constantly expanding. Internal migrants come in search of better employment and opportunity. However, they often struggle and end up settling in the impoverished outskirts of the city. While living conditions have improved in recent years, many people are without access to basic sanitation such as running water. In addition, unemployment rates continue to be extremely high, with some estimates as high as 80% of people out of a job. Many parents struggle to provide for their children. In some cases, they cannot afford enough food or an education. This in turn leads to increasing levels of violence.

Your support makes a difference for children in Windhoek

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
320
Families
Can stay together
140
Children
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
80
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Children playing together. Siblings grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Namibia).

How your support helps in Windhoek

Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.