President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says every Namibian child deserves equal opportunities to learn, stay healthy, discover their talents and pursue their dreams.

Nandi-Ndaitwah made the remarks in a message marking the Day of the Namibian Child, which is being celebrated today.

The Head of State noted that, as a mother herself, there could be no greater responsibility than nurturing, protecting and preparing children for the future.

“Every Namibian child deserves to grow up knowing that they are loved and safe, that their dreams matter and that their country believes in them,” she said.

Therefore, she said, "Our children must never be defined by the circumstances into which they are born. Whether a child grows up in a village, on a farm, in an informal settlement or in one of our towns and cities, that child deserves the same opportunity to learn, to be healthy, to discover their talents and to pursue their dreams." 

The President also highlighted the painful reality faced by many children, including violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

“No child should have to live in fear in the very places where they should feel safe,” she said.

Nandi-Ndaitwah called on parents, communities, churches, schools and institutions to protect children, saying the responsibility should not be left to the government alone. She said everyone had a duty to create an environment in which children are protected and supported.

The President underscored education as the greatest gift that can be given to Namibian children.

“But preparing them for the future requires more than access to a classroom. We must nurture curious minds, encourage critical thinking, equip our children with life skills and, importantly, listen to them. Children should have a voice in conversations about the issues that affect their lives and their future,” she said.

She urged children to study hard, ask questions, believe in themselves, and respect their parents, teachers and one another. She also encouraged them not to allow their backgrounds or the difficulties they face to determine how far they can go.

On the Day of the Namibian Child, the President called on every Namibian to renew the national commitment to placing the dignity, safety, education and well-being of every child at the heart of national development.