In 2022, the German Embassy was able to support the NGO “Side by Side Early Intervention Centre” with a grant of 424,000 NAD through its micro-project program. The Centre, located in Windhoek-Goreangab, helps children with physical and mental challenges.

The funds were used to procure mobility devices such as standing frames, wheelchairs and carriers for disabled children and additionally provide applicable training to their parents throughout Namibia.

On 16 May 2023 Deputy Head of Mission, Dr. Andreas Götze, had visited the centre and was given a demonstration of how the mobility devices are adapted to the children so they can make the most adequate use of it and gain the best of their mobility.

“I greatly appreciate the work of the Centre because it will contribute to improve the daily life of the most marginalized and vulnerable groups in Namibia”, Götze concluded.

The partner: Side by Side Early Intervention Centre

Side by Side Early Intervention Centre has been registered as a Section 21 (Non Profit Organization) since 2013. Their focus is the implementing of programs that support children with disabilities and their families. These programs include early intervention services provided through various therapies, early childhood education, parent and caregiver trainings, early detection of childhood disability through hospital visits, home health visits, disability awareness, and community education.

They successfully offer workshops, support therapy, and assistive devices along with referrals and integration techniques to affected families of lower income households. Through their advocacy, resource mobilization, and education they promote the strengthening of “early detection - early intervention and community based rehabilitation services” to achieve a fully inclusive Namibia.