Despite Namibia having robust child protection laws and policies, child abuse is not widely reported and remains a significant challenge, says Children's Advocate Heather Hacker.

There's a growing recognition of widespread child abuse and the risks children face from adults in positions of trust.

Violence threatens children's safety and well-being, and its persistence could potentially lead to the acceptance of physical, sexual, and psychological violence as an inevitable part of childhood, hindering effective resolution of these critical issues.

The Office of the Ombudsman diligently oversees the implementation of these laws to ensure their impact and effectiveness. 

Coastal towns, particularly Walvis Bay, are identified as areas prone to trafficking due to their proximity to the port.

Stakeholders are now taking a more proactive role in addressing these issues, emphasising individual responsibility in protecting children.

Advocate Heather Harker stressed the need for elders to build trusting relationships with children, providing a safe space for them to share their experiences, particularly instances of abuse.