Former President of Botswana Ian Khama has described the renaming of Feld Strasse in Windhoek to Sir Seretse Khama Street as more than just a name on a signpost, but rather a powerful symbol of the ideals that guided his father's footsteps of freedom, dignity, unity and the unwavering belief in Africa's right to self-determination.
Khama highlighted the strong historical and diplomatic ties between Botswana and Namibia, emphasising that the gesture honours his late father and reaffirms a shared legacy of solidarity.
The renaming of Feld Street to Sir Seretse Khama Street brought together many to honour a legacy that transcends the name on the signpost, with his values of unity, dignity, justice, and the pursuit of a better life for all showcased throughout the event.
Expressing gratitude for the gesture, Ian Khama described his father's leadership as one of service. He spoke of his selfless leadership, rooted in humility, hope, and a deep belief in the greatness of all people, as well as in nation-building, rooted in peace and democracy.
This street, Khama said, is a reminder that the dream of African unity is not just an abstract idea but a living truth, made visible through acts of friendship, courage, and cooperation, just like the shared histories of independence.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described the renaming of the street as a powerful statement of a shared history, remembrance, recognition, and renewal, highlighting Botswana's role during Namibia's darkest times, offering refuge to Namibians fleeing the brutal German genocide, an act of solidarity she says embodies the spirit of unity, dignity, and regional cooperation.
Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised that the renaming pays homage to Sir Seretse Khama's extraordinary courage and leadership, recognising him as a key member of the frontline states and one of the founding leaders of SADC.
Narrating the deep-rooted ties between Namibia and Botswana, Botswana's President Duma Boko emphasised that the two nations' relationship transcends mere political connections, reaching back to shared traditional foundations.
He noted that events such as the day's street renaming serve to cement the longstanding friendship and cooperation that have united the two countries over time.