WINDHOEK – Queen Elizabeth II of England says the Commonwealth family has an understanding they belong together and are able through teamwork to achieve far more than they would do alone.
The Queen conveyed this message on Monday to celebrate Commonwealth Day. Yvette Myakayaka-Manzini, High Commissioner of South Africa and Dean of the Commonwealth Heads of Mission Group in Namibia, read the Queen’s message, which in Namibia’s case was addressed to President Hifikepunye Pohamba.
“Affinities of history and inheritance from the past are strong, yet we are bound together by a sense that the Commonwealth is a powerful influence of good for the future,” read the speech.
The Queen also reflected on the 20th Commonwealth Games due in July which she said would be marked by the arrival of the games baton in Glasgow at the end of a journey that started in Buckingham Palace five months ago.
“Many of us are following closely the news of the baton relay as it passes through the 70 countries and territories whose teams will gather for the games,” she said, adding that the news of the baton brings warmth, shared endeavour and goodwill as it is passed through the hands of multitudes of people.
She said the theme for this year is Team Commonwealth, which expresses unity. “I am delighted that in this, the year Team Commonwealth, we will be working to build a brighter, united future in which everyone of us can play a part and share in its rewards,” she added.
On his part, Deputy Prime Minister Marco Hausiku said he was delighted to receive the Queen’s message on behalf of the President, government and the people of the Republic of Namibia.
Hausiku said that Namibia was looking forward to participate in the Commonwealth Games and was sending a competitive team to the games.
“I have no doubt that Team Namibia will make our country proud and strengthen the unity and cultural diversity of the Commonwealth,” he added.
He expressed contentment with the Commonwealth saying that its initiatives benefit Namibians in the areas of technical cooperation and Commonwealth scholarships that Namibia receives every year as well the technical assistance rendered to government ministries annually.
“Namibia joins Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and other member countries of the Commonwealth family in celebrating Commonwealth Day,” he said.
By Magreth Nunuhe