About EcSOS
What is EcSOS? EcSOS is a network of social service programmes that work together to empower Christian charities and church (diaconal) communities to render better services to residents of Namibia. The story behind EcSOS
After the establishment of the Synod in 1957, the Ministries of Benevolence were managed by a registered welfare organisation. The church's “Kommissie vir Diens van Ba
rmhartigheid (SKDB)” has played a dual role - on the one hand it was a church committee comprising of representatives from the presbyteries, and on the other hand, it was registered as a welfare organisation. The SKDB no longer exists. Since then, the Dutch Reformed Church became active inecumenical cooperation. The decision was made to establish a new social services organisation, this time in cooperation with the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (Namibia synod). After a process of consultation with the existing programmes, EcSOS (Ecumenical Social Services) came into being on 1 March 2012. Through negotiations with the authorities, EcSOS was acknowledged as the continuation of the former SKDB retaining the same welfare organisation status, namely WO 8. Where does EcSOS operate? EcSOS works on a national level in Namibia. Affiliated programmes service the regions of Kunene, Erongo, Kavango, Zambezi, Oshikoto, Otjizondjupa, Omaheke, Khomas, Hardap and Karas. EcSOS Board of Directors:
Chairperson: Rev. Clem Marais
Vice-Chairperson: Rev. Attie du Plessis
CEO: Mrs. Amanda Krüger – ex officio
DRC: Mrs. Abigail Bachopi
URCSA: Rev. Attie du Plessis
Specialist members:
(i) Mrs. Celeste Feris (child protection)
(ii) Mr. Niek Tromp (finances/treasurer)
Representatives of affiliated Programmes:
(i) Mr. Schalk van der Merwe
(ii) Mr. Wimpie Louw
Why is EcSOS needed? Through the unity within the catholic church of Christ, we hope to stand together and work together. Through this missional approach to organise a network of services, there are attempts at:
• joint liaison and action (e.g. with the government);
• increasing minimum standards of care (e.g. care of older persons and destitute children);
• supporting matters of common interest (e.g. legal liability of health establishments);
• transparent and good management and governance by ongoing consultation, training and monitoring. More people can be served by effective co-ordination of services and coordinated utilisation and the sound management of funds can contribute to sustainability and services for future generations. Tel 1: +264 61 374350
Tel 2: +264 61 374361
Fax: +264 61 227287
Email: [email protected]
