Swapo Party President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on party members to uphold unity, discipline and the party's principles of solidarity, freedom and justice at the opening of the 11th Ordinary Meeting of the Central Committee of the party.
The President also highlighted that the party's deliberations would focus on strengthening the party and ensuring that it remains committed to building a Namibia in which all citizens can live and prosper.
The meeting, being held for the first time at the new Swapo Party's headquarters, comes three days after Namibia commemorated the 60th anniversary of Heroes Day.
In her opening remarks, Nandi-Ndaitwah paid tribute to liberation struggle veterans and highlighted a series of events held during the week, including the repatriation of ancestral human remains of liberation heroes from South Africa.
"These ceremonies are not only about the past; they must teach our young people the price that was paid for Namibia's independence. We must preserve this history and pass it to future generations as a safeguard of our sovereignty and for our peace and stability, amongst others."
She also reaffirmed Namibia's solidarity with Cuba, calling for an end to the embargo against the country and thanking Namibians for supporting efforts to provide material assistance to the Cuban people.
"Our relationship with Cuba is based on history, friendship and shared sacrifice. We must never forget the support Cuba provided to the Namibian liberation struggle. International solidarity remains an important principle of the Swapo Party."
She stressed the importance of maintaining the confidence that Namibians have placed in the ruling party, urging party members and leaders not to disappoint the people who continue to place their trust in Swapo Party.
Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah says the party has a responsibility to respond to the expectations and aspirations of citizens through its policies, programmes and actions.
"We all know, whenever Swapo has activities, including the central committee, the whole nation is up waiting to see the results. This is because they know that their hope and future are based on us, and we have to rise to the occasion. Our party has survived so many difficult times during the struggle, but because of the commitment and dedication of our leaders and our members, we succeed. I can assure you that there is nothing that can prevent us from succeeding in taking care of our people so that they appreciate our independence."
The Swapo Party president has also emphasised the need for the party to remain united and focused as it works towards addressing the challenges facing the country and improving the lives of Namibians.