Below, some of the smaller projects and initiatives the Trust has supported are showcased.

ECD teacher training

In 2019, Osino organised a regional early childhood development (ECD) training initiative in collaborate with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare. Thirty-two crèche caregivers (educarers), most of whom run small crèches in informal settlements across four town in the Erongo Region, were trained over a seven-week period. The Namibian government has made ECD a development priority.

Have-a-Heart

Have-a-Heart provides free dog and cat spay and neuter services to pet owners with low or no income. The organisation’s goal is the humane reduction of the number of stray animals, thus eliminating the need for mass-euthanasia whilst improving the health and welfare status of township dogs and cats. Dogs and cats are also vaccinated and treated for parasites, which has health benefits for animals themselves, as well as human communities and local wildlife populations.

Taking Hands Educational Centre

Many disabled children in Namibia are stigmatised and do not receive adequate therapy or education. The Taking Hands Centre is an integrative kindergarten in Hakahana, Omaruru, that brings together about 20 pre-school children, some of whom are disabled and some able-bodied, to play and learn together. This bringing-together helps reduce the stigma around disabilities in the community. Disabled children also receive treatment and therapy at the Centre, and all children are provided with a balanced daily meal. The Centre also provides a safe space for around 20 scholars to do their homework in the afternoons.