The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) recorded over 100,000 cases of victims of trafficking globally, with approximately 5,000 new cases each year.

Currently, the organisation globally assists seven to nine thousand victims annually.

Speaking during the commemoration of World Day against Trafficking in Persons, the Head of the International Organisation for Migration Office, Florence Situmbeko, says the eradication of trafficking in persons demands a stronger focus on social justice issues.

This includes inequality, discrimination, and labour migration opportunities.

This, Situmbeko says, is emphasised in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically Target 10.7, which aims to promote safe, orderly, regular, and responsible migration.

Situmbeko says that efforts to prosecute those behind the trafficking network have faced significant challenges, and new approaches are needed to ensure justice for victims.

She says increased investment is required to evaluate anti-trafficking interventions and research current trends to guide future responses.

Also speaking at the event was the Mayor of Swakopmund, Dina Namubes, who says there must be insurance so that survivors receive the comprehensive care and support they need to rebuild their lives.

Namubes explained that human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that prey on vulnerable people.