Niël Terblanché
The Khomas Region activated the National Symbols Campaign last week.
The campaign aims to promote national identity and unity among all Namibians.
The deputy minister of information and communication technology, Modestus Amutse, launched the campaign, saying it is an important milestone in the country’s journey towards national cohesion.
“Our national symbols – the flag, the coat of arms, the national anthem, and the presidential standard – serve as powerful reminders of our shared history, values, and aspirations. These symbols bind us together as one nation and one people. We must uphold and celebrate these symbols, for they represent the very essence of our national pride and identity,” Amutse said.
First launched in the Erongo Region in 2023, the National Symbols Campaign is aimed at instilling a sense of pride and patriotism by educating the nation on the correct use of national symbols and their associated protocols.
The Khomas Region was the last of the 14 regions to activate this campaign, making today’s event a momentous occasion.
According to the deputy minister, the campaign not only pays tribute to the country’s rich cultural heritage but also honours the legacy of the late Dr. Hage Geingob, who championed the vision of the Namibian House – a vision of unity, inclusivity, and solidarity.
“By promoting national symbols, the campaign furthers Geingob’s vision of a united and harmonious nation,” he said.
With the recent discoveries of oil and gas and the country’s ambitious Green Hydrogen projects, Namibians have much to be proud of.
According to Amutse, these developments will accelerate the country’s socioeconomic growth and improve its standing both regionally and internationally.
The National Symbols Campaign, deriving its power from the National Symbols Act of 2018, aims to strengthen public awareness about the importance of these symbols as shared emblems of unity and national cohesion.
Amutse said that according to preliminary results from the 2023 population census, Khomas is the most populous region with 494 605 residents.
“This stresses the importance of spreading awareness and understanding of national symbols to all residents, regardless of background or affiliation,” he said.
According to Amutse, the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, along with stakeholders such as the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture, and the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, plans to undertake a monitoring and evaluation exercise to gauge the effectiveness of the campaign across all regions.
He added that the exercise will help drive further understanding of national symbols as a vehicle for nation-building.
“This campaign could not have come at a more opportune time, as this year is an election year. We need to enhance unity among our people and educate them on our shared values to vote with patriotism. Our national symbols are key to creating a stronger sense of unity and pride in our national identity,” Amutse said.
He said that there is a collective sense of purpose, determination, and pride.
“This year holds the promise of progress and growth for Namibia. By deepening knowledge and appreciation of national symbols, the foundation for a more enlightened and harmonious society is being laid,” he added.
He said the eventual activation of the National Symbols Campaign in the Khomas region is a call to the nation to embrace this task with enthusiasm and commitment.
“Let us work together to uphold and celebrate our national symbols with pride and dignity,” Amutse urged.
