Impact Evaluation Of Poverty Alleviation Programmes For The San Community In Omaheke And Ohangwena Regions

ABSTRACT

The study focused on the San community which is the most marginalised ethnic group in Namibia to establish their current economic status. The study sought to assess the effectiveness and impact of the poverty alleviation policies and programmes that are in place to respond to the plight of the poor, specifically the San. Primary data was collected in Omaheke and Ohangwena regions through structured questionnaires or interview guides, and field observations. Secondary data was collected from existing literature and research done on poverty in Namibia by organisations like Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) and the National Planning Commission (NPC). The target groups interviewed were the San, three NGOs, namely, WIMSA, LAC, NRCS and five government offices Ministries of Local Government, Housing and Rural Development (MLGHRD), Health and Social Services (MOHSS), Gender Equality and Child Welfare (MGECW), Emergency Management Unit (EMU) in the Office of the Prime Minister, and the National Planning Commission (NPC). Research findings indicate that the socio-economic status of the San community has shown little improvement since 1995. Hence, the majority is still marginalised, vulnerable and the dependency cycle continues. Most of the San community in Namibia finds it difficult to adapt to changing society and they lack productive resources relative to other tribes.