President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has clarified that the selection of the date 28th of May as Genocide Remembrance Day marks the gravity and compassion with which Namibians should approach the Ovaherero and Nama Genocide, committed between 1904 and 1908.
Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah equally appealed for unity, despite inevitable differences.
"That is a clear testament that debates in a democracy are welcome. Although we may differ on the interpretation of history, of dates and of events, the National Interest should take precedence. On the contrary, we should not cause unnecessary divisions when we should unite to advance the interests of our communities and our nation. I therefore call upon all affected communities to remain united in the belief that we are One Namibia, One Nation. We may have gone through different histories under German colonialism and apartheid occupation. However, I must emphasise that since March 1990, we have had a shared Namibian history, which is the foundation for our peace, stability and unity."
28 May 1908 was the day on which the German colonial authorities ordered the closure of concentration camps where they had been subjecting prisoners to brutal conditions, including scientific experiments.
The President expressed gratitude to former MP Usutuaije Maamberua for tabling the motion nine years ago for a day to be set aside and commemorated as Genocide Remembrance Day.
Vice President Lucia Witbooi emphasised the importance of this day. "The Genocide Remembrance Day stands as a solemn tribute to the memory of the thousands of lives tragically lost during the early 20th century genocide committed against the Ovaherero and Nama communities. Other communities such as the Damara and San were not spared. This commemoration not only offers a space for collective remembrance but also serves as a critical platform for acknowledging the historic injustices that have shaped our nation. It is a day that underscores our shared commitment to reconciliation, healing, and the ongoing process of nation-building."
The 28th of May will be observed as a public holiday going forward.