Namibia Marks Genocide Remembrance Day with National Reflection and Unity. Namibia observed Genocide Remembrance Day on 28 May, commemorating the memory of the thousands of Ovaherero and Nama people who were brutally killed between 1904 and 1908 under German colonial rule.
The Government of the Republic of Namibia, through the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, issued a statement honouring the victims and acknowledging the suffering endured during what is considered one of the darkest chapters in the country’s history. The day also marks the closure of concentration camps by German colonial authorities in 1907, ending a period of mass killings, forced displacement, and inhumane conditions.
In the official message, the government expressed its commitment to ensuring the day receives the recognition it deserves. It also reaffirmed support for affected communities as they lead commemorative activities that honour their cultural identity and historical experiences.
“Today, we remember those who perished, those who resisted and those whose stories remained unheard,” the statement reads. “We honour the resilience of descendants of the victims of the genocide who continue to seek justice, recognition, and healing.”
The government further encouraged all Namibians to reflect on the day as a moment to stand united in remembrance and solidarity. Citizens were urged to honour the memory of those who lost their lives and to use the day as both a remembrance of the past and a commitment to building a future grounded in dignity, peace, and mutual respect.
Genocide Remembrance Day serves not only as a solemn reflection but also as a national call for justice and historical acknowledgment. It remains an important reminder of the need to confront the legacies of colonial violence and the enduring strength of affected communities.