For thousands of San individuals across Namibia, the past few weeks have marked a turning point, a moment of recognition, dignity, and newfound hope. Through a nationwide mobile civil registration outreach, over 16,000 San community members have finally been registered, receiving the documents that will allow them to fully participate in society.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security announced that 16,153 San people were successfully registered between 23 June and 31 July 2025, reaching its goal well before the set deadline of 30 August 2025.
For many, this was their very first time holding a birth certificate or national ID.
“These documents may seem small to some, but for the San, they open the door to education, healthcare, jobs and most importantly, a sense of belonging,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry.
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The outreach focused on some of the most remote and san communities in Namibia. Many San families have, for generations, lived without formal identification, making it difficult to access basic services or prove legal identity.
With mobile teams traveling across the country, the campaign offered a range of services from first-time registrations to replacements of lost documents. It was a joint effort that saw traditional leaders, community elders, and local organizations stepping in to help guide the process and ensure no one was left behind.
“This programme wasn’t just about paperwork,” the Ministry added. “It was about reaching people where they are and removing the barriers that have kept them invisible for too long.”
While the target has been met, the Ministry is urging those who still haven’t registered to do so before the outreach ends later this month. Mobile teams remain active in various regions to assist the remaining eligible individuals.
For the San community, this isn’t just a government success it’s a deeply personal victory. A long-awaited acknowledgment of identity, and a step closer to the equality and inclusion they deserve.
