28/05/2026
Message by Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia on the Occasion of Genocide Remembrance Day 28 May 2026
As Namibians commemorate Genocide Remembrance Day today, we pause to reflect on one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history and honour the memory of the thousands of innocent Ovaherero and Nama lives lost during the 1904–1908 Genocide.
We also honour the courage and resistance of those who stood against colonial oppression and injustice at a time when the survival and dignity of our people were under attack.
The events of that period were not isolated from the broader story of our nation. They formed part of the foundation upon which the spirit of resistance and national consciousness was built, ultimately inspiring future generations in the long struggle for freedom and independence.
Genocide Remembrance Day is therefore not only important for the affected Ovaherero and Nama communities, but for all Namibians. 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.
Above all, this day should serve as a moment for us as Namibians to set aside our differences and pay homage to those who suffered and perished during this painful period of our history. Their sacrifice and resistance became part of the foundation upon which our nation was built. As such, this occasion must continue to unite us around our shared history, shared humanity, and shared responsibility to preserve the truth of what transpired.
As communities across various regions host commemorative events and activities, I encourage Namibians to participate in these engagements in a spirit of respect, unity, reflection, and national solidarity. While we remain cognizant of the sensitivity surrounding this painful chapter in our history, we must also recognize that every Namibian has the right to honour and pay tribute to those who perished during the Genocide. Their memory and sacrifice form part of our collective national heritage and consciousness.
The pain and impact of the Genocide continue to be felt generations later. As a nation, we therefore remain committed to ensuring that the atrocities committed against the Ovaherero and Nama people receive the same recognition, historical acknowledgement, and moral attention accorded to genocides and crimes against humanity committed 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.
Hence, our Government, together with the affected communities, will continue to engage the Federal Republic of Germany until the matter of the Genocide, apology, and reparations is brought to a just and meaningful conclusion.
As a nation, we must continue to protect and preserve our history. We must tell our own stories, document our experiences, and ensure that future generations never lose sight of the suffering, resilience, and sacrifice of those who came before us.
May Genocide Remembrance Day continue to strengthen our collective commitment to peace, unity, human dignity, and nation-building.
