Ondonga: King Fillemon Nangolo Shuumbwa urged Namibians to remember their shared history and reject tribalism during the commemoration of Genocide Remembrance Day on Thursday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the solemn commemoration was held at Ondonga village in the Olukonda Constituency of the Oshikoto Region. Shuumbwa emphasised that failing to honour historical events could disadvantage the nation, including its pursuit of economic freedom. He stressed that the 1904-1908 genocide was not merely about mourning those lost, but also about recognising the broader consequences of forgetting the past.

Shuumbwa praised President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for rolling out Genocide Remembrance Day commemorations across all regions, describing the initiative as a powerful step towards fostering national unity and solidarity. He noted that the atrocities committed against the Ovaherero and Nama people affected more than just those two communities.

"Men from Ondonga also took part in the battle under the leadership of the late king of Ondonga, Nangolo dhAmutenya, to assist the two tribes who were under attack," Shuumbwa revealed.

He highlighted Onamambili village in his jurisdiction, where a Herero family found refuge, an act that helped preserve lives during the genocide. He further described the historical significance of the venue, citing the bravery of the late Ompapa ya Nangolo dhAmutenya.

Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi echoed these sentiments, calling on Namibians to build a country where development reaches every community. Addressing the gathering, Kathindi described the day as 'a national moment of reflection' that honours the sacrifices of ancestors while recommitting the nation to unity, justice, peace, and human dignity.

He said the resilience shown by Namibians during colonial oppression forms the foundation of the current administration.

'The greatest tribute we can pay to those who suffered is not division. It is unity,' Kathindi said.

He urged citizens to reject attempts to divide the nation along tribal, regional, racial, or political lines and to teach future generations the truth of history alongside values of reconciliation and patriotism.