Walvis Bay
The generosity of Namibians and the private sector towards needy members of society was once again on display earlier this week at Walvis Bay when Swakop Uranium made a generous contribution towards Walvis Bay resident Benita Johannes.
Sixteen-year-old Benita, who dreams of becoming a doctor lost her limbs in a tragic accident in Walvis Bay on June 21, 2013 when a train ran over her as she was crossing the tracks. As a result of the accident her left arm and leg were amputated and she also lost her right foot.
Swakop Uranium, through their social responsibility arm, on Tuesday donated equipment to provide for her basic needs, which include a portable toilet, a bathroom seat and bath rail.
The mining company further pledged that the family’s yard would be altered to make it user-friendly to assist Benita to move around more easily. The equipment was handed over by Sadike Nepele, who in his personal capacity also donated N$10 000 to the family.
Johannes, who was run over by a train while crossing the railway near the harbour to visit relatives in town had her life altered in the most imaginable manner, as the train accident made her entirely dependent on the assistance of others.
Against all odds Johannes recovered from her injuries after spending several months in hospital. Benita aspires to become a doctor and decided not to let the tragedy put her life on hold, so she returned to school as soon as it was possible. She had to adjust to being entirely dependent on others to move around, or carry out basic daily tasks, also at Duinesig Secondary School where she is a pupil.
Earlier this year she received an electric bike from the deputy minister of health and social services, Juliet Kavetuna, that now enables her to go to school on her own and also improves her mobility at school.
Kavetuna said Benita made a strong impression on her after she saw the young learner speak on national television last year. She said Benita’s story touched her so much that she wanted to assist her, especially considering the fact that the teenager wants to become a medical doctor.
A very shy Benita thanked Swakop Uranium for the donation and also thanked the Namibian nation at large for supporting her.