The City of Windhoek has taken steps to address the growing presence of young children begging and selling goods at traffic intersections across the capital.
This follows the adoption of a motion tabled by councillor Ignatius Semba during an ordinary council meeting on Thursday.
Semba raised concerns over an estimated 150 children, believed to be of Angolan origin, who are frequently seen at major intersections selling wooden sticks and knobkerries while soliciting money from motorists.
“Some of the children are believed to be between the ages of five and seven years old, exposing them to serious risks in busy traffic environments,” he said.
Semba warned that the situation not only endangers the children’s safety but also poses risks to road users, while highlighting the need for a coordinated and long-term intervention.
He called for national-level action to address the issue and urged authorities to find sustainable solutions that protect the welfare of the children and uphold public safety.
As part of the adopted motion, Semba said the council resolved that the Office of the Mayor engage relevant government institutions and other stakeholders to explore possible interventions.
The matter has been referred to the management committee for further consideration and recommendations before a final course of action is determined by council.
