Over 10 000 San receive national documents
Over 10 900 San people have been registered and issued national documents in a sweeping government effort to bring identity and dignity to marginalised communities across Namibia.
More than 10 900 members of the San community have received national documents through a targeted government outreach programme, marking a significant step towards greater inclusion and access to public services for one of Namibia’s most marginalised groups.According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS), a total of 10 932 San individuals have been registered within the first 24 days of the initiative, which began on 23 June and is set to run until 30 August 2025.
The outreach, spearheaded by the ministry in collaboration with the Office of the President’s Division of Marginalised Communities and the Ministry of Gender Equality, aims to reach at least 16 000 San individuals across 63 constituencies.
The nationwide effort covers key regions including Oshikoto, Omusati, Oshana, Otjozondjupa, Hardap, Omaheke, Ohangwena, Kavango West, Kavango East, and Kunene.
Access to identity and protection
The services provided through the outreach include the registration of births and identity documents, applications for lost or damaged documents such as marriage and death certificates, as well as the correction of personal particulars. Additionally, previously uncollected IDs are being distributed.
Social protection services are also being facilitated on-site by the Division for Marginalised Communities and the gender ministry, with all services offered at no cost.
“This initiative is about ensuring that no one is left behind. Identity is not a privilege; it is a right. By bringing services closer to the people, especially those in remote areas, we are restoring dignity and creating pathways for access to education, healthcare, and other basic services," said Ettienne Maritz, executive director of MHAISS.
The San community, many of whom live in remote areas with limited access to government offices, often face administrative and logistical hurdles in securing identity documents.
Community mobilisation critical
Recognising the communication barriers in some of the targeted areas, including poor radio reception and limited mobile coverage, the ministry has appealed to the public to help spread the word.
“Members of the public, particularly those residing near the targeted regions, are urged to help inform and mobilise San families,” the ministry said, noting that word-of-mouth remains one of the most effective channels for reaching isolated communities.
Traditional leaders, local councillors, civil society organisations, and community-based groups have also been called upon to guide individuals to registration points and assist in gathering any available supporting documents. Where such documentation is lacking, special provisions have been made to assist applicants on a case-by-case basis.
The outreach forms part of the government’s broader strategy to promote inclusive development and the constitutional right to identity and social protection.