RESTORING HOPE: The First Lady and president of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development Sustjie Mbumba handed over dignity packs to 20 teenage mothers in Rundu. Photo Office of the First Lady
RESTORING HOPE: The First Lady and president of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development Sustjie Mbumba handed over dignity packs to 20 teenage mothers in Rundu. Photo Office of the First Lady

First Lady empowers teenage mothers

Nikanor Nangolo
Namibia’s first lady and president of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), Sustjie Mbumba, handed over dignity packs to 20 teenage mothers at the Rundu Intermediate Hospital in the Kavango East Region on Wednesday.The baby packs contain essential hygiene and baby products for teenage and young mothers under 25 years old.

Mbumba said OAFLAD’s goal is to contribute to the health and well-being of children, youth, and women through advocacy, resource mobilisation and strategic partnerships.

Through the #WeAreEqual campaign launched in Namibia in August 2023, OAFLAD’s initiatives include regional outreach and the distribution of hygiene packs to teenage and young mothers at state hospitals in both the Kavango East and West regions.

At the event, the first lady urged the youth to abstain or practice safe sex and encouraged parents to educate their children about sex to prevent teenage pregnancies.

Confidence and hope

Dr Jean Kabangu, the hospital’s medical superintendent, said the initiative aims to uplift single mothers who are navigating the challenges of parenthood.

“At Rundu Hospital, we strive to provide our patients with the best possible care and support. Yet, we cannot do this alone. It is through partnerships and contributions from generous hearts like yours that we can truly make a difference. Your support not only helps us meet immediate needs but also empowers these young mothers to face their future with confidence and hope,” he said.

“I strongly believe this outreach will instil valuable skills and awareness on crucial matters within communities, enlightening and broadening their outlook on life and making them feel that their leaders and the whole world indeed have them at heart. We are grateful for the empowerment these women, children, and young mothers will reap,” Kabangu added.

On Tuesday, the Office of the First Lady also handed over baby packs to teenage and young mothers at the Nankudu District Hospital in Kavango West.

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-23

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