Gaborone, Botswana - June 10, 2024 - A delegation from the Government of Botswana recently completed a five-day study tour in Namibia to explore and learn from Namibia’s effective practices in combating human trafficking. This visit, organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with Botswana's Ministry of Justice, aimed to enhance Botswana’s policies and procedures by leveraging regional cooperation.

From June 3-7, 2024, the delegation, led by Ms. Thobo G. Letlhage, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary for Human Rights and Equity, engaged with key representatives from Namibia’s government, private sector, and academia. The visit included discussions with officials from various Namibian ministries and organizations, including the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Ministry of Gender Equality, and the Namibian Police Force’s Gender-Based Violence Protection Unit.

“This mission exemplifies our dedication to combating human trafficking by learning from neighboring countries with shared histories and borders,” said Florence Situmbeko, Officer-in-Charge of IOM Namibia. “The insights gained from this visit will be invaluable in strengthening our policies, enhancing regional cooperation, and ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by trafficking.”

Key areas of focus during the visit included awareness-raising campaigns, victim identification and protection, and the operation of government-run safe houses for trafficking victims. The delegation also learned about Namibia’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for combating human trafficking and the importance of timely prosecutions.

Ms. Gladice Pickering, Executive Director of Namibia’s Ministry of Justice, emphasized the importance of collaboration between Botswana and Namibia. “Human trafficking affects both males and females, and addressing it requires developed and well-implemented policies. Our longstanding collaboration with Botswana will ensure better protection for citizens in both countries.”

The delegation from Botswana expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights gained. “This visit has been an enlightening experience,” said the leader of the delegation. “Namibia’s knowledge and understanding of anti-trafficking mechanisms will undoubtedly aid our efforts to combat trafficking in persons. We are committed to continuing this collaboration to ensure safe migration and better protection for all.”

The study tour was part of an IOM Development Fund project, which supports the implementation of effective anti-trafficking mechanisms. This collaborative effort contributes to achieving international development objectives, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Global Compact for Migration.

For further information, please contact:

Daphne Madisa, dsebeso@iom.int