Africazine:
Namibia launches a significant initiative to provide school shoes to thousands of children.
Project Never Walk Alone aims to distribute shoes to 31,500 Namibian children over the next three years, enhancing their school attendance and confidence. The project has already supplied shoes to 12,750 children across various regions and plans to expand its reach significantly by 2028.
Nationwide Rollout of School Shoes Initiative
Last week marked the launch of Project Never Walk Alone, a nationwide effort to provide school shoes to children in Namibia. The initiative focuses on regions most affected by barefoot learning, which has been a barrier to education for many. The project has already made strides, supplying shoes to 12,750 children in areas such as Zambezi, Kunene, and Kavango.
Over the next three years, the project will distribute shoes to an additional 31,500 children. In 2026, 10,000 pairs will be given to learners in Oshana, //Kharas, Otjozondjupa, and Omusati, regions that have not previously benefited from this initiative.
Budget and Impact on Learners
The total budget for the three-year program is N.92 million, with specific allocations of N.92 million in 2026, N.6 million in 2027, and N.4 million in 2028. This funding is crucial for addressing the issue of inadequate footwear, which affects school attendance and learners’ confidence.
Parents and school principals have expressed their support for the initiative. They believe that providing shoes will not only improve children’s health and safety but also restore dignity and boost their confidence in the classroom.
Next Steps for Project Never Walk Alone
- Distribute 10,000 pairs of shoes in 2026.
- Expand support to 11,500 children in 2027.
- Target an additional 10,000 children in 2028.
This initiative is set to transform the educational experience for thousands of Namibian children.
