Sinimbo calls for youth-led growth at independence celebrations

NKURENKURU, 21 MAR (NAMPA) - Kavango West Governor Verna Sinimbo has praised the region’s ambitious youth and determined residents as the engines of local growth, urging citizens to view independence as an ongoing mission to dismantle poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
Speaking at the 36th independence commemoration at Nkurenkuru on Saturday, Sinimbo linked the region’s momentum to its history of resistance and sacrifice.
“We gather as custodians of a hard-won freedom. Independence was not given to Namibians on a silver platter. It was fought for, paid for with the blood, sweat and tears of gallant sons and daughters of Namibia,” she said.
Sinimbo reflected on the colonial partition of the Kavango River and the early conflicts that scarred the region, highlighting the resilience shown by traditional authorities under German and South African rule. She specifically honoured leaders like Hompa Kandjimi Hauwanga and Hompa Daniel Sitentu Mpasi for their defiance and support of the liberation struggle.
Referring to Hompa Mpasi’s historical meetings with founding President Sam Nujoma in London and Lusaka, Sinimbo noted: “These were not ordinary meetings. They were acts of fearless and risky efforts of supporting the struggle.”
Sinimbo further said Kavango West is “rising with purpose” and credited the region's progress to a strong local work ethic and the drive of the younger generation.
“Our people are hardworking. Our youth are ambitious. Our communities are determined,” she said. “The true measure of independence lies not only in political freedom, but in economic empowerment, social justice, and inclusive development.”
The governor further called for urgent improvements in service delivery, food security, and youth empowerment.
“We are called upon to accelerate service delivery, strengthen food security, empower our youth and create sustainable livelihoods for our people,” Sinimbo said, adding that meeting these goals requires national discipline.
She concluded by framing independence not just as a celebration, but as a living obligation to create a fairer future.
“As we celebrate, we must also reflect. Namibia is a nation we must build. It is a legacy we must protect. It is a future we must shape together,” she said.
(NAMPA)
JLN/AS/EK