Sakaria Johannes
As Namibia celebrates 35 years of independence, it is a time for reflection on what independence truly means and how far we have come since the dawn of freedom. For many Namibians, independence signifies the end of colonial rule, the promise of a better future, and the vision of equality and freedom. However, despite the triumphs of liberation, we must critically assess the state of our nation today. Are we truly free? What have we achieved since we gained our independence, and are we living the dream our forefathers fought for?
What Have We Achieved So Far?
While Namibia has made significant strides in various areas since independence, there are glaring disparities and unmet promises that continue to haunt most of its citizens.
Land Ownership and Distribution
Land remains a key issue in Namibia. Despite the government’s efforts to address land reform, much of the land is still owned by individuals, many of whom are descendants of the former colonizers. According to the Namibian Ministry of Land Reform, only about 15% of the land in Namibia is owned by black Namibians, while 85% remains under the control of largely white commercial farmers and individuals with historical ties to colonial rule. The distribution of land remains inequitable, with most Namibians living in overcrowded communal areas, many of them struggling with the realities of a lack of access to productive land and economic opportunities.
Economic Inequality and Unemployment
One of the most concerning issues is the high level of youth unemployment, which stands at around 43% for young people aged 15-34, according to the Namibia Statistics Agency. This unemployment rate is not just a statistic; it represents the disillusionment and frustration of an entire generation of Namibians who have no meaningful access to economic opportunities. The failure to address this issue undermines the core promise of independence – the promise of a better life for all.
Furthermore, Namibia’s economy is still heavily dominated by white monopoly capital. The wealth and resources of the country remain concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority of Namibians, especially black Namibians, continue to live in abject poverty. According to the World Bank, around 26% of Namibians live below the national poverty line, with black Namibians being disproportionately affected by this economic inequality.
The Legacy of Apartheid and the Red Line
Despite the country’s political independence, the psychological and economic effects of apartheid and colonialism still linger. The Red Line, which once separated white and black Namibians, still serves as a powerful symbol of the divisions that persist today. Though apartheid laws were officially abolished, the economic and social realities in the country still largely follow the patterns that were laid out during colonial rule.
What Does Independence Really Mean?
Independence is not simply a change of leadership; it is about transforming the systems that perpetuate inequality and oppression. Independence means the ability for all Namibians to have equal access to land, wealth, opportunities, and justice. It means the dismantling of the structures that favor a few while leaving the majority marginalized and voiceless.
Unfortunately, the system that our forefathers fought against still exists in many ways. The land remains in the hands of a few, the economy is still largely controlled by white monopoly capital, and the youth are left with few opportunities for a better life. What then, is the meaning of independence when so many are still oppressed by the very system that was meant to be dismantled?
For true independence to be realized, we must go beyond changing political leaders; we must focus on changing the systems that perpetuate inequality. Land reform, economic diversification, job creation, and a redistribution of wealth are urgent priorities that need to be addressed in a meaningful way. It is only when these systemic issues are tackled that we can say we have truly achieved independence.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
As we mark 35 years of independence, it is crucial to remember that independence is not merely the absence of colonial rule, but the presence of justice, equality, and opportunity for all. It is a call to address the unfinished business of our liberation struggle.
We owe it to our forefathers, who fought for land, dignity, and equality, to build a Namibia where all citizens, regardless of their race or background, can live in prosperity and peace. True independence will only be achieved when the land is distributed, economic opportunities are accessible to all, and the legacy of apartheid is fully dismantled. Until then, we must continue the struggle for a truly free Namibia.
Sakaria Johannes is a political science graduate from the University of Namibia. His interests are: Decoloniality and Pan Africanism. He can be reached at sackyuutsi@gmail.com
