Written by: Badr Ahmed

Namibian President Ntembo Nandi-Ndaitwah today commemorated the 130th anniversary of the Battle of Utgenda Stormfield, which ended with the execution of historical leader Umbara Kahimimua Njufaofa on June 12, 1896, in Okahanga, during an official ceremony held in Okahanga, Otjozondjuba Province.

The President was accompanied on this occasion by her first husband, retired Lieutenant General Ibaravras Dinga Ndayitwah, along with Prime Minister Dr. Elijah Ngorari, Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasoa, Chairman of the Council of Traditional Chiefs Gaub Emmanuel Gasib, as well as Eben Tzozohongo II Ngofaofa, leader of the traditional authority of the Ovambendiro, and a number of members of parliament, governors, local authority leaders, traditional chiefs, and a crowd of citizens.

On the 130th anniversary of the Battle of Utgenda

In her address to the audience, the President described the occasion as a moment of reflection and tribute to the legacy of courage, resilience, and wise leadership embodied by Umbara Kahimimua Njofa, along with the many sons and daughters of Namibia who resisted colonialism and defended the sovereignty of the nation.

She emphasized that Namibia’s identity as a land of heroes is based on the sacrifices of historical leaders who gave their lives for freedom, justice, and human dignity, noting that these values continue to inspire current and future generations.

The President called on all citizens to reject tribalism, regionalism and all forms of discrimination, and to promote the values of unity, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence, stressing that protecting national independence requires collective responsibility, respect for democratic institutions and joint action for comprehensive development.

She also stressed the importance of partnership with traditional authorities as a key pillar in promoting social cohesion, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting development efforts in local communities, calling on traditional leaders to continue to care for the well-being of their communities and support the government’s priorities and the Sixth National Development Plan.

On the 1904–1908 genocide, the President affirmed the continuation of negotiations between Namibia and Germany, expressing her hope for a just and honorable agreement. She also highlighted the importance of Genocide Remembrance Day on May 28 as a platform to commemorate the victims, promote historical awareness, and strengthen national unity.

The President concluded her speech by calling on the Namibian people to preserve the legacy of those who fought against injustice and colonialism, and to work together to build a prosperous and inclusive nation, based on the principle of One Namibia, One Nation. .