National pride initiative launched

OGONE TLHAGE



WINDHOEK

President Hage Geingob last week launched the Nationhood and National Pride programme, which will, among others, seek to enhance the spirit of nationhood, build a sense of national pride in Namibian citizens and promote the values of Namibian culture and traditions.

Reflecting on the initiative, Geingob noted that Namibia had moved beyond its reconciliatory path.

“Over the years, the drive for nationhood and peace has progressed beyond reconciliation and we have sought to nurture and develop a narrative of national unity, denoted by concepts such as One Namibia, One Nation; Harambee, and No Namibian Should Feel Left Out,” he said.

He said these concepts urge Namibians to distance themselves from ethnic and tribal strains.

“These concepts symbolise a call for all Namibians to uphold the intrinsic values that have helped us emerge and overcome historical trials and tribulations during and after our struggle for independence. It is a way to exorcise from our communities the ethnic and tribal strains that were engrained into our nation’s psyche.”

Fighting tribal tendencies

Geingob further said he would fight against any tribal tendencies.

“As the head of our household, I have vowed to fight against these retrogressive tendencies and prevent their manifestation in our Namibian House. Let us pursue values that inspire and encourage Namibians to treat one another with respect and dignity irrespective of their gender, race, religion or political affiliation,” he said.

The president also called on Namibians to work together to elevate the status of the country.

“Let us pursue values that call on our citizens to hold hands and work as one people, to strive together to overcome common challenges in order to take Namibia to higher heights of success and shared prosperity.”