Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety & Security Lucia Iipumbu said government officials are set to meet soon to deliberate on finding a lasting solution for the Angolan children roaming and selling handmade crafts on Namibian streets. 

Reports last year suggested that they were repatriated back to their home country sometime in December. 

These minors are usually spotted at shopping malls across Windhoek, selling wooden products such knobkieries, cups, and spoons. Although it is a popular belief that they hail from Angola, most of them refuse to disclose where they come from, thereby honouring their master’s directive not to reveal their origin, real names, parents’ names, or anything about their stay in Namibia.  

Based on their appearance – from the hairstyles to the pieces of chitenge, body ornaments and the language they speak – they seem to belong to a Mwila tribe found in the Huila province in Angola.

The minors, who are known in some circles as ‘Kadhila Amoomo’s kids’ after the lawyer’s consistent advocacy to address their plight, have been seen roaming around the streets of Windhoek and other parts of the country.

“I think from Monday onwards, after the meeting, I would be able to tell you about the decision on these people,” said Iipumbu. 

Meanwhile, Angola’s ambassador to Namibia Pedro Mutindi said the objective was to “identify, rescue and transport the children back to Angola in a joint operation that addresses both humanitarian and governmental concerns. Logistical aspects, such as accommodation, transport and food, are in place.” 

The Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi earlier this month said the two countries would meet sometime this year to discuss the matter and find a lasting solution.

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na