EU donates half-a-million to UNAM’s migrant effort

Staff reporter



The European Union in partnership with the International Organisation of Migrants (IOM) made a monetary donation towards the University of Namibia’s social responsibility arm – UNAM Cares.

The donation, to the tune of N$530 000, was made to strengthen the University’s efforts in addressing the plight of stranded and vulnerable migrants in Namibia.

Speaking at the official handover of the donation’s event, EU Ambassador, H.E Ms Sinikka Anttila remarked that migration is a key policy area for the EU and expressed her joy about this collaboration.

“Migration inside of the EU is at the top of the political agenda and is also one of the 5 key priority areas on the EU-Africa cooperation. I am, therefore, extremely happy that IOM and UNAM have agreed to this initiative.”

“Large-scale migration continues to show that more needs to be done to confront the increasing number of migrants and it is gratifying to see that the University of Namibia has partnered with IOM and the EU, in supporting this cause,” said Hon. Dr Itah Kandji-Murangi, Minister of Higher Education, Training and Innovation.

The grant will enable UNAM Cares to contribute impactful to the lives and livelihoods of vulnerable and stranded migrants in Namibia in providing them with psychosocial support, counseling and humanitarian aid.

Professor Kenneth Matengu, UNAM Vice Chancellor, thanked the partners for their generous donations and commitment to uphold the rights and needs of migrants. Head of the International Organisation for Migration, Mrs Florence Situmbeko expressed her gratitude to the EU, the Government of the Republic of Namibia and the University of Namibia.

“I thank you all for being here and your assistance through every step of the way and I wish UNAM Cares and IOM a cordial collaborative relationship ahead,” remarked Dr Rachel Freeman, the UNAM Cares Lead and Senior Lecturer in the Social Work Department.