Take them out to play

Octavia Tsibes
Vinoliah Mangaba

For a number of children from orphanages in Windhoek, the world outside is not quite well-known.

Schedules are super-strict. Schools are not far from their orphanages and playgrounds are close. Basically all essentials are at their doorsteps.

The Noble Foundation decided to take the children out to have some fun.

The foundation is a youth organisation that aims for sustainable development.

It believes that this kind of development can only take place if we nurture each other. Three orphanages were invited: the SOS Children's Village, Orlindi Orphanage and Dolam Children's Home.

The children were delighted to have a day well-spent at the Academia Secondary School’s sports field, where they indulged in different sport codes and fun activities.

The majority of the sport codes were miniature games, so the younger children could also be included.

The turnout was splendid. There was also a football tournament for older youth, which was used as a way to raise funds.

Miss Outapi, Tracy Kayofa, made an appearance. She said the fun day was an amazing experience and that she had lots of fun, as she felt so comfortable with the children. Kayofa spent a number of years in an orphanage and was able to relate to the children's joy. She says she was honoured to be part of the event and wishes to be a part of many others.

The fun day had many sponsors. Some of the sponsors were private individuals and the rest were large companies.

The companies were Red Bull, OTB Sport, Mpact Packaging, The Spot, Shoprite/Checkers, the Confab and SVG Multi Civil Engineers. A special thanks also went to Herman Rust, the principal of Academia Secondary School for availing the sports field for the day.

Patricia Doeses, the head of the Noble Foundation and her team were indeed glad that the day was a great success.

Doeses wishes to bring a harmonious relationship between all welfare organisations and societies.

One of the Orlindi Orphanage home mothers said she was grateful for the day, as the children are kept within the facility immediately after they get home from school. Their friends are also in the orphanage, so they never really go out to socialise and have fun. Many of the children said they were really happy to just get away from their usual daily routine. The 10th of November will surely remain in the memories of all who participated and contributed in one way or another.

* Vinoliah Mangaba is a grade 12 learner at Academia Secondary School in Windhoek.