Women’s economic empowerment in Ondangwa, Namibia: Keulukuwa’s story
When Keulukuwa got pregnant, she was forced to drop out of school before finishing her secondary education. She was raised by her grandmother, and their household income could barely cover her education expenses, let alone the care of another child.
With no formal education or training, Keulukuwa lived in poverty, and caring for her child was a daily struggle, a struggle she was determined to overcome.
In 2021, Keulukuwa's life significantly improved after she joined the SOS Children’s Villages Family Strengthening Program. The program offered a much-needed lifeline, providing a hopeful glimpse into a better future. A critical first step is to create a comprehensive development plan that maps the steps that will guide Keulukuwa toward financial independence.
The young mother was determined to pursue a career that would lift her out of poverty. She was supported to finish high school, and with career guidance, she enrolled at a local vocational training centre to obtain a Diploma in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. This trade requires an aptitude for problem-solving, math, reading and interpreting specifications, and working with power tools and sophisticated technology. A male-dominated area of work, Keulukuwa is one of the few women who graduated from the program.
With the support of SOS Children’s Villages Namibia and the Ministry of Gender, Keulukuwa also received childcare assistance, which allowed her to pursue her studies without worry. The support she received is a testament to their commitment to providing opportunities for young single mothers.
The Family Strengthening Program covered the cost of Keulukuwa's education and provided a much-needed emotional and social support network. This support was instrumental in helping her effectively balance her responsibilities. Today, she stands as a beacon of hope for other single mothers in Ondangwa, proving that education and ambition can thrive alongside motherhood with the right support.