On 5 Mayeach year, the Lusophone communities around the world commemorate the World Portuguese Language Day, proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) in 2019.  

On this date, we celebrate cultures, literatures and artistic expressions that make up the pluricentric and diverse lusophone world.  

We also highlight the dynamism and the richness of the Portuguese language as a global means of communication increasingly present in innovation, research, scientific and technological knowledge, business, art, literature and diplomacy.

Spoken by more than 300 million people in four continents and being the official language of nine countries (Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea Bissau, East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal and Sao Tome and Principe), the Portuguese language is the most widely-spoken language in the Southern hemisphere.

Being the common language of the Community of Portuguese- Speaking Countries (CPLP) – to which Namibia is an Observer Member – Portuguese language is broadly spoken in Namibia, representing a bridge between local culture and the widespread world of Lusophony.

Recognising its international scope, since 2011, Portuguese language is taught in Namibian public schools, being a curricular option in the educational system of the Republic of Namibia.

In a more interconnected and interdependent world, the study of the Portuguese language by an increasing number of young Namibians is of great significance as it opens the doors to new possibilities of cooperation in various fields.

The resident embassies of Angola, Brazil and Portugal express their gratitude to all Namibians for embracing the legacy of the Portuguese language, a bond that unites us as friendly partners. 

Obrigado, Namibia! Thank you, Namibia!

* H.E. Vivian Loss Sanmartin, Ambassador of Brazil and Pedro Mutindi, Ambassador of Angola