Redefining the significance of Heroes Day in 2016 and beyond

By Matheus Pendapala TaapopiAugust 26 is an occasion established to pay homage to all who fought with valour and bravery for peace, freedom and democracy; whose works and deeds, upright courage and fearlessness contributed to the liberation of our country. After two-and-a-half decades, our leaders have distorted the organic values and meaning of a true national Heroes Day. Currently this occasion has fallen victim to the characterisation of self-glorification and centralisation of the genuine heroes’ philosophy by those in power. Although the intention is genuine to instil an understanding of heroism, nationalism and patriotism which we understand to be the values exhibited by liberation struggle heroes. But the born-free generation, and the coming generation is less interested in the past and politics of self-aggrandisement, but the present and future. Merely because the born-frees, only did once and don’t relate or resonate with the heroes’ day activities anymore. They are more preoccupied and more engaged with the everyday academic struggles and the fight to acquire equal employment and economic opportunities.Felix Adler, an American-German author, once asserted that “a hero is one who kindles a great light in the world, who sets up blazing torches in the dark streets of life for men to see by”. With the current state of affairs we are in a crisis and as elucidated by Robert Sobukwe, we need “true leadership (that will) command subjugation of self, integrity and uprightness of character, courage and fearlessness and above all a consuming love for one’s people.” Such qualities will engender heroes of the economic freedom struggle – born-frees – so that the political sacrifices made by our heroes from the past will not be for naught. National Heroes Day ought to be a day when we herald its significance in the broadest sense, and also remember the heroes who are not with us anymore, but most importantly honour our present-day heroes we directly relate to and resonate with. It is yet another perfect opportunity to spend time with family and friends, to reflect and honour the many heroes who fought for what we have gained to date. And when all is said and done, we all have our own heroes in life, and they deserve to be celebrated too! Here I speak of the fathers and mothers, uncles and aunts, brothers and sisters who play the parental guardian roles, who work hard each and every day to provide for their immediate and extended families. Every time, against all odds, they make sure that something is on the dinner table, ensure provision for shelter to nurture and keep us safe within. From his ‘Father to Son’ compilation, listen to Lucky Dube: “Give it up for the fighter man, give it up for the street cleaner, give it up for the man and woman who take care of abandoned children.” As we honour those designated as national heroes, we should honour our loved and respected ones who are leaders in our communities and make humble, positive differences and contributions every single day, without as much as a whisper of how much they are doing and have done. So this year, let’s take a minute to thank our own heroes for everything they do. Let’s return the love they so freely give. National Heroes Day is also the perfect time to reconnect and strengthen family bonds. National Heroes Day should be no exception. We can take the time out to thank them for their heroic deeds over the years. Telling people how thankful you are for their generosity is a wonderful gift to give and the greatest homage we can pay to our national hero(es). In closing, listen to him again; “(Mother) do you see the smiles on their faces, after you have done what you do best? Do you see satisfaction on their faces after you have blessed them with your gift?” Lucky Dube, 1964 – 2007. *Matheus Pendapala Taapopi is a third-year student studying towards a Bachelor of Public Management at the University of Namibia. He is also a student activist.

Redefining the significance of Heroes Day in 2016 and beyond

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-05

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Redefining the significance of Heroes Day in 2016 and beyond

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-05

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