Statement from Rachel Odede,
“UNICEF is devastated by the heart-breaking story of the mutilation and murder of nine year old Cheryl Avihe Ujaha from Windhoek’s Katutura Township. We condemn this attack and extend our heartfelt condolence to Cheryl’s family.
This brutal act reminds all of us that many of our children in Namibia continue to experience acts of violence in their communities.
Across different social and economic strata of Namibia, children deserve their basic human rights to protection, health, and education. All children, irrespective of their socio-economic status, should live in a protective environment – one that safeguards them from abuse and exploitation. No child must be left behind in our common pursuit of enabling each child to survive and thrive.
UNICEF remains fully committed to support the relevant Ministries and civil society organisations in Namibia who are providing the much needed support to families, schools and communities affected by violence against children, and to ensure that mechanisms are in place to address and avert such crimes.
UNICEF also calls for speedy regulation of 2015 Child Care and Protection Act, and welcomes the National Safe Schools Framework that will be launched this month.”