OMHEDI – President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has urged all traditional authorities to strongly condemn and abhor corruption in whatever shape or form it manifests itself.
“Citizens, investors and visitors alike must not be subjected to additional payments for services rendered by public servants or any other service providers in this country. I must say corruption can only be addressed if the victims are ready to talk and give evidence,” she stated.
Nandi-Ndaitwah was speaking at Omhedi Palace in the Ohangwena region during the annual Omaongo Festival, which took place on Saturday.
Various politicians, church leaders, community members and traditional leaders were in attendance.
The Omaongo Festival is held annually to preserve Namibia’s rich cultural heritage and promote national unity.
This celebration brings people from all walks of life together to honour and enjoy the traditional Marula brew.
This year’s theme is ‘Preservation of Our Cultural Heritage and Strengthening of Our Unity’.
The President stressed that they have all taken an oath to defend and protect the Constitution and the laws of the Republic of Namibia.
She said corruption has no place in their institutions and their motherland.
Nandi-Ndaitwah commended late Founding President Sam Nujoma for initiating the annual celebration, which continues to unite Namibians.
“The Omaongo Annual Festival represents the spirit of our ancestors, a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of our people. It is a platform for us to honour our traditions, share our stories and reaffirm our commitment to the preservation of our cultural heritage for future generations,” she said.
The Head of State added that the festival serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, cooperation and respect within the communities and across the nation.
“This festival, a cherished tradition rotating amongst the eight traditional authorities in the north of Namibia, holds a special place in the hearts of our communities. Each year, we look forward to gathering, celebrating our rich cultural heritage, and strengthening the bonds of unity that unite us as Namibians,” said the President.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said this festival attracts people from across the country, a testament to the shared values and aspirations that unite them as a nation.
“As a nation, we must see our culture as a thread that ties us together and avoid temptations to use our cultures and traditions to divide us. Hence, part of our theme for the next five years is unity in diversity,” she noted.
The President has urged all Namibians not to allow criminals to take away their freedom of movement at any time of the day.
She stated that lawlessness is unacceptable, and the security of citizens is of paramount importance.
The President called on traditional leaders to work alongside the government in combating domestic violence, particularly the abuse of women and children.
Speaking at the occasion, Ohangwena governor Sebastian Ndeitunga described the festival as a symbol of unity as Namibians gather to celebrate a beverage that has become an essential part of the culture of Aawambo.
Chief Herman Iipumbu of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority, who serves as chairperson of the eight traditional authorities, on Saturday announced that the Uukwaluudhi and Uukwambi traditional authorities will host next year’s festival.