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| WINDHOEK – The Namibian Catholic Women Movement is calling on governments to be responsible and not only to make laws against human trafficking, but also to implement them. The movement calls for the allocation of adequate resources to combat the crime. The issue of human trafficking, especially of women, came to the fore during the just-ended 2010 FIFA World Cup, which took place in South Africa. A number of incidents were reported, even in Namibia, where women, and even children, were trafficked to South Africa to be used as prostitutes during the event. “We are concerned that no cases of people who had disappeared at this stage had been brought to the attention of the police, while we know this is happening in our communities,” a statement issued by the Namibian Catholic Bishops Conference’s Gender Desk stated. Currently, Namibia has no law in place against human trafficking. Gender Desk Coordinator, Elma Dienda, expressed hope that the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare would take up the matter seriously and come up with the necessary legal framework. “We also hope that the said ministry will conduct proper research on this issue, so that concrete evidence can be used as a tool to prevent it.” She said although Namibia might only be used as a transit route at this stage, it is a real concern to the church. The movement is further urging families to inform them or the police about any suspicious behaviour of family members. “As women of faith, in solidarity with our sisters and brothers who suffer the consequences of this evil, we will not remain silent,” the movement, promised. Human trafficking is when somebody is threatened, deceived or abducted for the purpose of exploitation and then transported within a country or to another country from their place of origin. Such recruiters could even be close relatives, a friend, a neighbour, travel agencies or a stranger. According to the movement, more women and girls than men or boys are being trafficked. It said promises include work, study, marriage or becoming tour guides. Back to Top New Era | |||||
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