Gabriel Taapopi learners support orphanage
On 10 August, Gabriel Taapopi Secondary School, in collaboration with the Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO), paid a meaningful visit to Dr Frans Aupa Indongo Special Care Centre.The initiative was spearheaded by one of the school’s learners, Jonas Shiimi, following the recent relocation of the orphanage from Oshakati East to Okandgengedi.
In preparation for their visit, the learners made an initial trip to the orphanage to identify essential items needed by the children. A source close to the orphanage described the facility as “messy and disorganised”, reflecting the challenges faced by the centre.
Aili Shilongo, the founder and caretaker of the orphanage, expressed her concerns about the children’s living conditions. “It is unfortunate to see how vulnerable these kids are when it comes to basic resources such as food, water and clothes,” she said.
She lamented the lack of government support, noting that the orphanage last received official assistance in 2015. “It has been a struggle for us. Some days are manageable, but other times we don’t have food to provide. I often rely on my pension money to meet their needs."
In response, Gabriel Taapopi Secondary School mobilised learners to donate clothes, blankets and toiletries. Their appeal also extended to other schools, resulting in a higher-than-expected turnout of donations.
During the visit, learners actively participated in cooking, cleaning and interacting with the children.
One learner reflected on the experience, saying: “The time spent at the orphanage was nothing compared to how we felt in that moment".
Building on the momentum of their outreach, Gabriel Taapopi learners organised a cinema day at the Ongwediva Multi-Purpose Centre on 6 September. The event aimed to raise additional funds to support the orphanage and ensure better living conditions for the children in the future.