MARIENTAL – The Mariental Town Council last week, in recognition of the positive impact on residents of the town, renamed a street after former Hardap governor and education minister Katrina Hanse-Himarwa.
In her keynote address, Urban and Rural Development deputy minister Evelyne Nawases-Tayele said renaming streets after individuals is a clear demonstration of the fruitful role she played in changing the lives of people during her life on earth.
“Katrina Hanse-Himarwa was not only a wife, mother or daughter, but indeed a leader and trailblazer, who paved the way for us,” she described the late politician.
The politician added that the day marked the celebration of her convictions, innovations and achievements in the various roles she carried out while alive.
She continued: “This gesture from the side of the town council is particularly meaningful, as it coincides with the weekend of the funeral”.
Nawases-Tayele also shared with the audience her knowledge that her mentor and role model deeply desired to receive the recognition bestowed on her three days ago.
“Her patriotism in life was so exemplary that she, at her sickbed, asked me to get in touch with the Electoral Commission of Namibia to come and register her as an eligible voter for the upcoming elections,” the deputy minister praised her.
She also said the event marks the celebration of Hanse-Himarwa’s unwavering resilience and courage in confronting adversity.
“Allow me to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the family for their admirable efforts, bravery, sacrifices and commitment towards our departed leader, who deserved the highest praise bestowed upon her”, Nawases-Tayele added.
In his remarks, Hardap governor Salomon April said the fact that the Landless People’s Movement (LPM) majority-led Mariental town council recognised Hanse-Himarwa does not take anything away, but rather enhances and consolidates the value and worth that she means for them as Nama people and Namibians in general.
“Therefore, LPM should be thanked for having done something others could not do,” he commented.
April continued that the former Hardap governor empowered so many people in her life, and brought them to still waters and green pastures.
Is renaming the street in her honour enough? It is rather a good start, he said.
Also speaking, Hardap regional council chairperson Gershon Dausab reasoned that the only way you can have people’s memories and history written in life is by inserting their names on streets and buildings.
“The Landless People’s Movement has accordingly decided to acknowledge and honour everyone who left a mark on the people of the Hardap region,” he said.
– sklukowski@nepc.com.na