SWAKOPMUND — Indigenous communities in Namibia have united in their call for significant enhancements in educational resources and social services, emphasizing the need for better learning opportunities for all ages.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the call for improvements was made during the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples celebration. Khaibas stressed the pivotal role of education in fostering progress and detailed the community’s demands for more schools, qualified teachers, and culturally relevant educational resources. She also advocated for programs that facilitate lifelong learning and skill development for the elderly, highlighting their crucial role in community development.
In addition to educational needs, the community urged for more robust support systems, including the establishment of a dedicated office to address their unique challenges. These demands come at a time when the national event theme focused on ‘Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact’, reflecting the deep-seated struggles faced by these communities.
Deputy Minister of Marginalized Communities, Royal /Ui/o/oo, speaking through a representative, addressed the systemic issues resulting from historical injustices such as land dispossession and forced migrations, which have led to the erosion of languages, traditional knowledge systems, and spiritual sites. Despite these adversities, he affirmed the government’s commitment to uphold the rights of indigenous minorities, referencing Namibia’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Erongo Region Governor Neville Andre Itope also spoke at the event, praising the indigenous communities’ contributions to Namibia’s cultural diversity and advocating for continued collaboration between local authorities and indigenous groups to protect and celebrate cultural heritage.
The event was marked by the participation of indigenous cultural groups from across the country, showcasing their traditions and the ongoing commitment to their cultural preservation.