This study ascertained the information needs of
orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) and
their caregivers and the information
disseminating strategies used by key
stakeholders in managing the OVC situation in
Namibia. Both qualitative and quantitative
methods were used, in the form of interviews,
focus group discussions and questionnaires.
Preliminary findings indicate that the OVC
preferred oral and interpersonal communication,
and used relatives, teachers and friends as their
main sources of information. Television, books,
radio, newspapers and church leaders were also
popular information channels. Caregivers
preferred interpersonal communication, and use
Afr.J. Lib,Arch.&Inf;. Sc. Vol. 19, No. 1 (2009) 39 - 52
Information Needs and Information-seeking
Behaviour of Orphans and Vulnerable Children
and their Caregivers in Okahandja, Namibia
social workers and relatives as their main
sources of information. Other channels used for
communicating information included workshops/
seminars, radios and newspapers. Most service
providers produced leaflets and posters, and
organised meetings in order to disseminate
information to their target groups.