Hilma Nalupe

When Kleopas Petrus set off from Okahandja at 02h00 on Friday morning, the road ahead was long, dark and uncertain. Seventy-seven kilometres later, under the afternoon sun, he reached Windhoek – exhausted but resolute – to hand over a petition he hopes will spark change for people with disabilities, survivors of gender-based violence, and the unemployed youth in Namibia.

The journey, which took nearly 13 hours, was not without pain. “The walk itself, was a painful undertaking… but it had to be done to create awareness,” Petrus who has sight impairement reflected. Escorted by traffic police officers for safety and supported by well-wishers who offered him water and food, his solitary walk grew into a small movement of solidarity along the highway.

At the Office of the Prime Minister, Petrus presented his petition titled ‘Urgent Call for Inclusive Reform.’ The document outlines proposals in four areas: disability inclusion, combating gender-based violence, tackling youth unemployment, and ensuring representation of persons with disabilities in national decision-making.

Among its demands are awareness campaigns to educate citizens about disability rights, accessible housing, interpreter services in public institutions, and specialised facilities for children with disabilities. On GBV, the petition calls for community social workers, confidential reporting channels, and dedicated counselling and rehabilitation centres.

For unemployed youth, Petrus urges government and stakeholders to expand vocational training, apprenticeship schemes and entrepreneurship support, while adopting inclusive hiring practices that do not sideline persons with disabilities. Safe and accessible transport for pupils in rural areas and stronger alignment between education and employment are also highlighted as urgent priorities.

But for Petrus, the walk was never about a single day’s effort. “We stand at a critical juncture: between neglect and transformation. With determination and your support, we can dismantle barriers, champion dignity and empower all Namibians to build a more inclusive, resilient future,” he said after delivering the petition.

With blisters on his feet and a weary body, Petrus expressed hope the distance he walked will echo far beyond the stretch of the road between Okahandja and Windhoek – into the hearts of those with the power to act on the transformation he seeks.