With only two weeks to go until the country’s annual Independence Day, preparations are in full swing to ensure the occasion is celebrated with enthusiasm.
The day marks the country’s freedom from colonial rule and is a time for reflection on the sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes, heroines and the progress made since the dawn of self-rule.
The highly anticipated day on the Namibian calendar will be celebrated in the northern town of Outapi in the Omusati region.
Several events have been planned across the country to celebrate the occasion, however, the grand parade will be held at the Olufuko Cultural Centre, which will be attended by dignitaries and members of the public.
The parade will feature performances by cultural troupes, displays by the armed forces and a show of the country’s technological achievements.
In an interview with New Era, the governor of Omusati, Erginus Endjala, said due to the limited budget, there will be no pre and post-activities.
“We have budget constraints which we are trying to iron out at the moment. So we have cut on a few stuff such as entertainment,” said Endjala.
He also said special arrangements have been made to ensure that the celebrations are conducted in a safe and secure environment, with law enforcement agencies working in close coordination to maintain law and order.
“We are still at the early stages of the preparations. So, I will not be able to give more information as the preparations are still ongoing. However, I am assuring the public that we are putting everything in place and we will ensure that the event will be a success,” he said.
As the nation gears up to celebrate its independence, the message of unity and national cohesion is being emphasised.
Endjala called on people from all walks of life to work together towards building a better future for the country.
The executive director of the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) Audrin Mathe said this year’s event will cost government only N$2.5 million.
Like other national events, Independence celebrations are held in the regions on a rotational basis. The previous celebration was held in Swakopmund in Erongo region.
The event will be live-streamed on the social media platforms of the ministry of information, New Era, NBC, Nampa and radio services.