Khorixas: The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC) on Tuesday held a regional consultation meeting in Khorixas to gather public input on the Draft National Policy on the Repatriation and Restitution of Human Remains and Heritage Objects. The meeting, attended by representatives from local authorities and traditional leaders in the Kunene Region, forms part of nationwide consultations aimed at shaping a national policy to address historical injustices.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during the discussions, participants called for land to be included as a key component of the proposed repatriation and restitution policy. Manfred Gaeb, the ministry's Director of National Heritage and Culture Programmes who facilitated the session, assured participants that all submissions and recommendations made during the consultations would be taken into consideration in drafting the national policy. Gaeb stated, "Restitution aims to repair, as far as possible, the damage that was caused by the unlawful removal of cultural items and human remains."

He explained that the ongoing consultations seek to raise awareness and ensure inclusivity among stakeholders and the general public. Community representatives also expressed the need for pre-consultation meetings to help participants better understand the purpose and expectations of the process. Harry Haradoeb of the Gaiodaman Traditional Authority highlighted the historical injustices faced by the Damara people, suggesting that with proper research and study, the involvement of Damara victims in the Ovaherero and Nama genocide could be confirmed through the human remains currently held in German institutions.

Gaeb noted that the formulation of comprehensive guidelines for repatriation would require forensic, investigative, and research components to ensure accuracy and respect for ancestral remains. He emphasized the emotional and ethical importance of repatriation and restitution in restoring cultural dignity and ancestral respect for descendant communities. As a board member of the National Heritage Council of Namibia, Gaeb stated that the ministry will continue conducting nationwide consultations to finalize the Draft National Policy on the Repatriation and Restitution of Human Remains and Heritage Objects.