On Friday 27 February 2026, the inauguration of four newly constructed classrooms and a storage facility at WJD Cloete Combined School marked the successful culmination of a project that began several months ago.
In late 2025, Wilderness Namibia and Children in the Wilderness (CITW) were approached by IXM Metals – a Swiss mining company that operates extensively in Namibia – inviting CITW to collaborate on a project to build facilities at a school in southern Namibia. In response, CITW proposed WJD Cloete Combined School in Rietoog – a partner school since 2008.
Progress on the construction
This project directly addressed the shortage of classrooms, aiming to create a more organised and supportive learning environment for students. In addition to enhancing infrastructure, it reflects Wilderness’ commitment to the Educate pillar of its Impact strategy, and CITW’s decades-long work towards youth empowerment, leadership development, and sustainable community growth.
The classrooms and storage facility were constructed between early November and mid-December 2025, at a total cost of NAD1.4 million.
Official opening ceremony
Attendees of the inauguration at the school, located in the Hardap Region of Namibia, included the Honourable Dr Emma Kantema-Goamas, Minister of Gender Equality & Child Welfare, Hardap Governor Riaan McNab, Regional Councillors, representatives from Wilderness Namibia – Alexandra Margull, Alex Henderson, Hamish Hofmeyr, and Agnes Kerii – and partner IXM Metals’ Zanele Mkhize and Avovi Mohandass. As well as inaugurating the four new classrooms and storage facility, they also participated in a tree-planting initiative.
The Minister of Gender Equality & Child Welfare, Hon. Dr Emma Kantema-Goamas, officially cut the ribbon during the inauguration ceremony
Alexandra Margull (Wilderness Group COO) and Alex Henderson (Wilderness Namibia MD) contributed to the tree planting ceremony
Wilderness Namibia Impact Manager Agnes Kerii made a speech on behalf of Wilderness
As a gesture of appreciation for the generous donation and support from Wilderness and IXM Metals, learners and teachers presented cultural performances that included traditional songs and dancing. The performances added a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere to the event, and highlighted the pride and excitement the school community feels after receiving the new facilities.
