Side by Side on the move
The German Embassy in Windhoek visited the Side by Side Early Intervention Centre at Goreangab, after offering support through its micro-project programme to the tune of N$424 000 to the NGO last year.The centre, located in 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 Tuesday, Deputy Head of Mission, Dr Andreas Götze, 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 contributes to improving the daily life of the most marginalized and vulnerable groups in Namibia,” Götze said.
Side by Side Early Intervention Centre was established in 2013 with the aim of implementing programmes that support children with disabilities and their families. These programmes include early intervention services provided through various therapies, early childhood education, parent and caregiver training, early detection of childhood disability through hospital visits, home health visits, disability awareness, and community education.
The centre offers workshops, support therapy, and assistive devices along with referrals and integration techniques to affected families of lower-income households. Through their advocacy, resource mobilisation and education they promote the strengthening of “early detection - early intervention and community-based rehabilitation services” to achieve a fully inclusive Namibia.