What started as a fundraising effort in July is now officially taking shape as Minna Sachs Primary School in Keetmanshoop officially broke ground for the construction of its soup kitchen.
Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy Gaudentia Khrone at the groundbreaking event said investing in children's well-being in the present is the stepping stone towards building a better future for them.
The ceremony held on Monday was attended by Keetmanshoop Mayor Emrico Blaauw, Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, as well as education officials, school staff, parents and learners.
"Returning today is a reminder that progress is possible; their commitment translates into action as we move towards the future we envision. We have gathered not simply to break ground but to build a future. When we turn this soil today at Minna Sachs Primary School, we are making a powerful statement that our children matter, their education matters, and their dreams are worth investing in," stated MIME Deputy Minister Khrone.
NBC News was informed that 18 pledges, from both individuals and companies, have been made towards the project.
These include DEBMARINE, NAMDEB, Atushe Rocklobster, RFA, NAMPORT, Rotary Club, Hektas Fashion and Schacter and Namdar, which contributes N$20 000 every month to the school's business account.
So far $232,516 has been pledged towards the project.
Khrone also thanked and praised the commitment of sponsors, teachers, school board members and community members who made the project possible.
Mayor Blaauw highlighted the important role nutrition plays in children's well-being and education.
"A hungry child cannot be expected to concentrate fully in a classroom; education and nutrition go hand in hand. When we provide children with nutritious meals, we are not only merely feeding their bodies, but we are also nourishing their minds, helping their ability to learn and giving them a better opportunity to succeed academically."
Blaauw said this soup kitchen will serve as a beacon of care, where care is demonstrated and children can experience dignity.