steps for children in Katutura
The new steps facility Single Quarter is struggling
to cope with the increasing crime
One of Windhoek's most dangerous residential areas is Single Quarter in Katutura. This is mainly because poverty here is very high and many people try to secure their survival through illegal activities too. The residents are confronted with numerous problems, including inadequate access to basic services such as water, sewage and electricity and high unemployment. The residential area is known for its high population density with its informal settlements and is predominantly inhabited by low-income families who live in small huts made of corrugated iron and other makeshift materials. Despite these challenges, there is a vibrant community here with a strong sense of solidarity among the residents.
Our steps kindergarten and preschool are adjacent to the eponymous area of Single Quarter and the steps building is located on the grounds of Jacob MARENGO School: A primary school and a secondary school are located here, so after kindergarten and preschool our little ones can move directly on to these schools. They are therefore already familiar with the surroundings and the teachers and can cope well with the transition to school life.
We can clearly feel the crime rate in Katutura, for the second time already. A few months ago, our shade nets were stolen in broad daylight during the holidays despite security measures on the school grounds. For most Namibians, shade nets are of great value - in some cases they provide the only shade, as there are hardly any natural sources of shade in many places.
Shortly afterwards, the kindergarten was once again visited by thieves during play and learning time looking for money. The thefts are mostly acquisitive crime, with people in their poverty trying everything to get money or goods.
We stay and help!
Nevertheless, we are not deterred from our vision of creating educational opportunities and prospects for disadvantaged children and young people. We remain where the children need us all the more and offer learning opportunities and regular meals, protection and security.
In order to increase safety, we are working at full speed (together with Jacob Marengo School) on a security concept, so that assaults of this kind can be prevented. The costs for this are high – alongside a deterrent security fence and a security camera, additional security personnel are being hired, whose explicit job will be to ensure the safety of the steps children and staff, and who will also guard the premises at night.
Support our new Single Quarter facility with a free contribution
Would you like to get to know us in person? Please visit us after предварительной registration at info@stepsforchildren.de – we look forward to seeing you!
