steps for children in Katutura
The new steps facility Single Quarter is struggling greatly
with the rising crime rate
One of the most dangerous residential areas of Windhoek is Single Quarter in Katutura. This is mainly because poverty is very high here and many people try to secure their survival through illegal activities as well. 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 metal and other makeshift materials. Despite these challenges, one can feel a vibrant community here with a strong sense of solidarity among the residents.
Our steps kindergarten and preschool border the area Single Quarter is named after and the steps building is located on the grounds of the Jacob MARENGO School: A primary school and a secondary school are located here, so our children can transfer directly to these schools after their kindergarten and preschool years. This means they are already familiar with the surroundings and teaching staff and can cope well with the transition to everyday school life.
We can clearly feel Katutura's crime rate, for the second time already. A few months ago, our shade nets were stolen in broad daylight during the holidays despite security precautions on the school premises. For most Namibians, shade nets are very valuable – in some cases, they provide the only shade, as there is hardly any natural 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.
To increase security, we are working flat out (together with the Jacob Marengo School) on a security concept so that attacks of this kind can be prevented. The costs are high – in addition to a deterrent security fence and a security camera, additional security personnel will be hired to explicitly take care of the safety of the steps children and staff members and will also guard the premises at night.
Support our new Single Quarter facility with a donation of your choice
Would you like to get to know us on site? Feel free to visit us after registering in advance at info@stepsforchildren.de – we look forward to seeing you!
