Kavango west: The Kavango West Region on Thursday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. In her keynote remarks at the event held at Yinsu Village, Gender Equality and Child Welfare Deputy Minister Linda Mbwale highlighted the universal nature of parental love and community aspirations, saying: "No parent brings a child into this world simply to be trafficked. Every parent, rich or poor, black or white, has the same dreams for their children."

According to Namibia Press Agency, Mbwale noted that this year's theme, 'Human Trafficking is Organised Crime - End the Exploitation,' serves as a strong reminder of the coordinated nature of the crime and highlights the urgent need for a joint comprehensive and multisectoral response. She stressed that combating trafficking requires collective responsibility, adding that the safety and security of the communities is not only the responsibility of law enforcement agencies, but that of parents, as crime starts with a member of the community.

Mbwale urged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspected trafficking cases to the Namibian Police Force. "Let us not be silent bystanders, tomorrow it might be your child, relative or community member," she noted.

Governor of the Kavango West region, Verna Sinimbo, emphasized the gravity of human trafficking, stating that it is a crime that hides in plain sight, preying on the vulnerable, stripping people of their dignity, and violating their most basic rights. "This fight, therefore, requires all of us, leaders, communities, and institutions to speak out, stand firm, and act decisively," she said.

Sinimbo reiterated the region's commitment to raising awareness, building resilience, and working alongside all stakeholders to end this injustice.