Auleria Wakudumo
In Donkerhoek, Khorixas in the Kunene region, where poverty and hardship often overshadow daily life, 44-year-old Adleritha Haraes has become a gentle source of comfort and protection for the children. She runs a small soup kitchen called Hands of God Soup Kitchen, where she caters for 25 children, most of them girls.
Caring for children began not as a choice but as a promise born from pain. After her own daughter was raped, she dedicated her life to protecting every girl in the location, a commitment that earned her the name “Girls’ Mother” from both police officers and the community.
Haraes is a mother not only to her own children, but to the other 24 girls and one boy, who have found comfort, guidance and stability under her roof. Her small soup kitchen has grown into a place where children feel protected, fed and supported.
Haraes’ journey of caring began from a deeply personal experience that strengthened her resolve to build a safe space for others. But today, she chooses to focus on the positive change that came from that moment.
“From that day, I promised myself that no child should walk alone. I decided to be a mother to all the girls here,” she said.
Haraes expressed that life in Donkerhoek is not easy, especially for children who often come from households facing poverty. She said that on some difficult days, children roam the streets because there is no food at home. She added that these are the kids she brings in and feed. Many of them now live with her permanently, safe under her care.
To keep her soup kitchen running, Haraes works on surrounding farms. The income is small, but she uses it entirely for food, mostly vegetables, to ensure the children eat at least once or twice a day.
Despite the difficulties, Haraes beams with pride when she speaks about the achievements of the children she raises.
This year alone, seven of her girls and the only boy among 24 girls successfully completed Grade 11 at Outjo High School and Welwitchia Secondary School.
With the support of the ministry of education, the learners were placed in hostels, where their meals and accommodation are covered.
“That helped me focus on the younger ones who are still here at home,” she said.
Haraes hopes to expand what she has already built. She envisions a proper kitchen structure, more beds for the children, and enough food to serve meals several times a day, like she once did.
“I would love support from the government and private companies to help me grow this kitchen. I want these children to be safe and eat well,” she said.
She also encouraged authorities to include soup kitchens when distributing drought relief food, saying such support has a direct impact on children’s well-being.
Beyond food and shelter, Haraes teaches the children kindness, respect and self-worth. She provides a safe space where they can laugh, play, learn and dream.
Whether she is cooking porridge, washing school uniforms, comforting a frightened child or celebrating exam results, Haraes does everything with the heart of a mother. For many children, she is the reason they feel seen, loved and protected.
“My dream is simple, to raise these children with love and safety, and to see them grow into strong, confident young women,” she added.