Today (19 June 2024), the European Union funded project “Empowering the San: Legal capacity building for human rights”, implemented by the Legal Assistance Center, kicked off with an inception workshop in Windhoek. Members of the various San communities, chiefs and community leaders, government representatives, members of Civil Society and international development partners came together to learn about the objectives of the project and to garner support and commitment.

In her opening remarks, Toni Hancox, Director of the Legal Assistance Center, welcomed all participants: “ Today marks a significant milestone as we gather here to embark on a journey towards empowerment, justice, and equality for San communities across Namibia. The LAC has long been committed to advocating for the rights of marginalized groups, and this workshop represents a crucial step forward in our collective efforts.”

Silke Höfs, Programme Manager for Governance, Human Rights and Civil Society at the EU Delegation to Namibia highlighted in her welcoming remarks: “The European Union is firmly committed to promoting and protecting the rights of marginalized people, inclusive development, cultural preservation, and combating discrimination. We believe that through partnerships and collaborative efforts, we can improve the conditions of marginalized people in Namibia and beyond.”