The struggle continues

March is a very important month in Namibia's history. The day 21 March always brings back memories of the euphoria of 1990 when Namibians from all walks of life celebrated the end of sanctioned racial oppression under the South African apartheid regime. It remains one of the proudest moments for many Namibians. Twenty-seven years after independence we are still counting both the gains and failures of a free and democratic republic. Obviously, there have significant strides made in lifting people out of poverty, but high levels of inequality still persist. We have done relatively well as a country and it is true that Namibia is better off than it was 27 years ago. However, there are those who let our people down. It has always been our wish to see a Namibia where no one is re-colonised by the selected few who appear to have selfishly formed an intricate system that promotes corruption, nepotism and patronage among others. It really takes a true patriot to fight for his/her motherland. Despite our differences, days such as the Independence Day, should not be used to promote certain political agendas. It is therefore unpatriotic to mobilise people not to attend celebrations of this nature. As patriotic sons and daughters of our nation, we should have progressive and positive views of the future of our country. Promoting a positive attitude towards inclusivity in all shapes should become the mainstay of our society. Diversity is useless without inclusivity. The successful realisation of these goals depends on our understanding and acceptance of our beautiful country as a vibrant multi-cultural society, free of tribalism and racial discrimination. Let us learn to despise name-calling, derogatory attacks against each other and all the other evils that have blighted our society. Equally our leaders must not take the freedom we are enjoying today for granted and must realise that in our midst, there are those who are still sick, tired and who feel hopelessness in hardship. We are stronger as one, but the struggle isn't over yet.