The Zambezi Region played a crucial role in Namibia's liberation struggle, as most SWAPO leaders crossed through the then-Caprivi Strip to Botswana, Zambia, and other African countries. 

Former Member of Parliament Bernard Sibalatani provided a historical recollection during an interview with NBC News ahead of Heroes Day commemoration.

Sibalatani shared that he remained inside Namibia when many pupils from local schools crossed into Zambia to join the liberation struggle.

But what was more intimidating was learners being taught by teachers in army uniforms while a military officer with an automatic rifle was positioned in the corner of classrooms.

Sibalatani said what motivated them to join the fight against oppression was the broadcast of Voice of Namibia programmes on the radio, which they would listen to at night at the hostel.

Sibalatani was involved in the bombing of Caprivi Toyota, among many acts of resistance in the 80s.

However, some of his comrades nearly killed him in another bomb explosion.

The battles waged from the Zambezi Region also bear significance, he said, after the 1966 Omugulugwombashe battle.

Now that the Heroes Day commemoration is in the Zambezi Region, Sibalatani urged residents to appreciate developments spearheaded by the government.