UNAM Press launches book on faith and Namibia’s liberation struggle

The book, written by Christian A. Williams, examines the interplay between Christian missionary work and anti-colonial nationalism through Ailonga’s life, within the context of Southern African liberation struggles and exile experiences during the late twentieth century.

Naitsikile lizyenda-Ndoroma, a publisher from UNAM Press, delivered the welcoming remarks, where she highlighted the impact of the book, saying that it provides access to international audiences, Namibians, students, researchers, and all those who continue to engage with the histories that shape the country.

She further expressed gratitude to the author, Williams, stating that, “ on behalf of UNAM Press, I would like to thank the author for his commitment to this book. I know it's been a long time coming and we thank you for the depth of engagement that it reflects”.

Speaking at the launch, author Christian A. Williams discussed the book, starting with the cover page, where he stated that, “ This is a picture of Salatiel Ailonga and his wife as they appeared in May 1975. It is taken at the height of Salatiel Ailonga work as chaplain to Namibians in exile”.

Williams further elaborated on the book, reflecting on Ailonga’s history.

He stated that during the period from January 1974 to June 1976, Ailonga and his wife travelled across northern Europe, informing people about the plight of Namibians in exile and appealing for humanitarian aid for those who had left during the exodus of 1974 and 1975.

Deputy Director in the Directorate of Policy at the education ministry, and Deputy Chair of the UNAM Press Editorial Board, Natasha Cheikhyoussef, delivered the vote of thanks at the book launch.

Speaking at the event, Cheikhyoussef gave the vote of thanks, stating that the partnership between UNAM Press and the author has allowed this important work to reach audiences in Namibia, where its insights are most deeply rooted and meaningfully engaged.

She further thanked the author, stating that, “ thank you for your dedication to this excellent work. The book reflects not only a rigorous scholarship, but a sustained and thoughtful engagement with Namibian history and with the people whose lives shake it”.