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The parliament of this country in southern Africa pbaded a law in late January authorizing mothers to bring newborns with the police or into a shelter without incurring charges.
FILE: Image: Provided.
WINDHOEK – The Namibian government said Friday that it hoped that a new law removing criminal penalties for mothers who abandon their newborn would allow women who can not take care of their children to return them safely to the authorities.
The parliament of this country in southern Africa pbaded a law in late January authorizing mothers to bring newborns with the police or into a shelter without incurring charges.
"We hope that the children will not be thrown away but that they will instead be taken to safe places. We hope to see fewer cases of dumping of babies, "said Friday to AFP Wilhencia Uiras, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Gender Equality.
Local media on Friday quoted Namibian police data that 25 babies were abandoned between 2017 and 2018.
Abortion is illegal in Namibia except when a rape victim becomes pregnant or the mother's life is in danger.
Several mothers have already been arrested and charged with attempted murder for abandoning their babies.
Others were fined or sentenced to six months for neglecting a child.
Joyce Nakuta, deputy director of Child Protection and Social Welfare Services at the Ministry of Gender Equality, told the Namibian newspaper that mothers were encouraged to let children be safe. To take care of their children rather than resort to illegal abortion.
"They can leave babies in safe places and we will not chase them. If you are considering an abortion, keep the baby until the end. Give birth and the government will take over, "she said.
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