Niël Terblanché
Omaheke became the second region where the National Symbols Campaign under the Nationhood and National Pride Campaign which seeks to instill patriotism and strengthen national identity in Namibians, will be promoted.
Three weeks after the inaugural launch of the campaign in Swakopmund, the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Peya Mushelenga, did the same for the people in Namibia’s Cattle Country.
“National symbols are the embodiment of national unity and patriotism. They foster national pride, a sense of citizenship duty and obligation and inculcate sentimental values to nationhood among citizens. People attach emotions to these symbols and embrace the national identity,” he said.
According to Mushelenga, national anthems are not ordinary songs but represent nationhood.
‘National anthems reflect on the country’s heroic struggle and advocate collective consciousness. They remind citizens of the glory of their nation, the beauty of their land and its vegetation, and the importance of self-acknowledgement. Therefore, when we sing the national anthem, we should do so with utmost reverence, to give true meanings to the words therein,” he said.
According to Mushelenga, the ministry in collaboration with various stakeholders has decided to conduct regional launches to ensure that the campaign reaches everyone along the length and breadth of the country to educate the citizenry on the correct use of national symbols.
“It is incumbent upon the regional leadership to ensure that Omaheke remains one of the champions for the correct use of national symbols and observation of related protocols to our national anthem and flag,” he said.
The Minister said that the campaign is aimed at promoting and educating people from all walks of life, especially young people, on the importance of national symbols.
“We believe that this will foster a greater sense of national pride and help to strengthen our national identity as Namibians,” he reiterated.
Mushelenga urged all Namibians to embrace the campaign and to treat national symbols in a manner that shows respect and honour. “Let us all work together to promote unity, patriotism, and national pride. Let us demonstrate that we are proud to be Namibians and that we will always stand together, united in our love for our country,” he said.
The National Symbols Campaign will be rolled out across all 14 regions of Namibia through a comprehensive outreach programme.
The campaign will include workshops, seminars, and public events, and will also provide a platform for citizens to engage in discussions, ask questions, and deepen their knowledge of national symbols.
It is expected that the campaign will contribute to a more profound understanding of Namibia’s collective journey towards a prosperous future.
