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| Anti-Corruption Commission |
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has confirmed the arrest of a former Administrative Officer from the Ministry of Gender and Child Welfare, Mr. Kelenose Mbathera, and his girlfriend, Belinda Mbaindjikua, in connection with allegations of fraudulent government grant applications.
According to the Commission, the duo allegedly collected personal documents from family and friends under the pretext of applying for Harambee grants for vulnerable children. Investigators allege that these applications were later altered to disability grants without the knowledge or consent of the beneficiaries.
Payments from the suspected fraudulent disability grants were reportedly funneled into accounts held by Ms. Mbaindjikua at Bank Windhoek and First National Bank of Namibia.
Mr. Mbathera faces charges under Section 43(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2003 (Act No. 8 of 2003), for corruptly using his official position for personal gain, as well as Section 35(3) for submitting false documents to mislead the principal. Ms. Mbaindjikua has been charged under Section 46 of the same Act. Both were granted bail of N$15,000 and are scheduled to appear at the Otjiwarongo Regional Court on 03 June 2026. The matter has been postponed to allow further investigation.
The ACC reiterated its commitment to rooting out corruption and maintaining accountability within public institutions, stating that such acts undermine good governance and service delivery. The Commission assured the public that it will continue to pursue those involved in corrupt practices to ensure they face justice.