President Netumbo Nandi‑Ndaitwah says the pain and impact of the 1904–1908 genocide continue to be felt generations later.

In a message to mark Genocide Remembrance Day, the President said the events of that period were not isolated from the broader story of Namibia, but formed part of the foundations on which the spirit of resistance and national consciousness were built.

“It is a national day of remembrance, reflection and learning, particularly for the younger generation, who must continue to understand the painful history that shaped our country and the sacrifices that were made for the Namibia we know today,” she said.

The President encouraged all Namibians to participate in commemorative events across the country to honour the memory and sacrifice of the victims.

She said, “While we remain cognisant of the sensitivity surrounding this painful chapter, we must also recognise that every Namibian has the right to honour and pay tribute to those who perished in the genocide.”

Dr. Nandi‑Ndaitwah said Namibia remains committed to ensuring that the atrocities committed against the Nama and Ovaherero communities receive the same recognition, historical acknowledgement and moral attention accorded to genocides and crimes against humanity elsewhere in the world.

“In doing so, we reaffirm the importance of historical truth, justice, healing and reparations as part of the broader process of reconciliation and closure,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.

The government, together with affected communities, she said, will continue engagements with Germany until the matters of apology and reparations are brought to a just conclusion.

Namibia marks its second Genocide Remembrance Day following its declaration as a public holiday in 2025.