People with disabilities across Namibia report facing widespread discrimination when seeking employment opportunities. Many qualified individuals remain jobless despite having skills and training that make them capable workers. Employers often reject applications from disabled candidates without considering their actual abilities. Government policies designed to help disabled workers find jobs exist on paper but lack proper implementation. Advocacy groups say the situation has created frustration among disabled people who want to contribute to society.
Sarafina Nambinga has spent years trying to help her 30-year-old daughter Sabina Joachim find any type of work. Joachim became disabled at age one after developing tuberculosis meningitis but retains normal mental capacity. She attended special schools for eight years and later completed skills training that taught her sewing and other abilities. Nambinga has approached disability officers multiple times requesting help finding her daughter employment as a cleaner or other positions. The family has received no meaningful assistance despite these repeated efforts.
Namibia Association of People with Physical Disabilities members describe similar experiences across different sectors. Selma Niilenge uses a wheelchair but cannot secure internship opportunities despite her qualifications. The Ministry of Home Affairs advertised five positions specifically for disabled applicants but hired only one person. Studies indicate that 70 percent of disabled people in Khomas region lack employment and 95 percent remain jobless in Kunene region. The Employment Equity Commission continues developing new legislation to address workplace discrimination but the bill requires additional review before reaching Parliament.
Sarafina Nambinga has spent years trying to help her 30-year-old daughter Sabina Joachim find any type of work. Joachim became disabled at age one after developing tuberculosis meningitis but retains normal mental capacity. She attended special schools for eight years and later completed skills training that taught her sewing and other abilities. Nambinga has approached disability officers multiple times requesting help finding her daughter employment as a cleaner or other positions. The family has received no meaningful assistance despite these repeated efforts.
Namibia Association of People with Physical Disabilities members describe similar experiences across different sectors. Selma Niilenge uses a wheelchair but cannot secure internship opportunities despite her qualifications. The Ministry of Home Affairs advertised five positions specifically for disabled applicants but hired only one person. Studies indicate that 70 percent of disabled people in Khomas region lack employment and 95 percent remain jobless in Kunene region. The Employment Equity Commission continues developing new legislation to address workplace discrimination but the bill requires additional review before reaching Parliament.
