Namibia is a land defined by its diversity—and by its determined pursuit of peace and unity. Yet recent remarks about Genocide Day have reminded us that our journey toward full integration is far from over. Tribalism and racism still lurk beneath the surface, even in a country praised for its post-Independence reconciliation. Today, I want to reflect on culture, race, and identity in Namibia—not as academic concepts, but as lived realities that shape our nation.
A Nation of Survivors and Settlers
Most Namibian peoples arrived here under the shadow of hardship—fleeing war, colonization, or systemic oppression. They chose to settle in an arid and unforgiving landscape, forging not only communities but a collective identity grounded in coexistence. For generations, our people have fought not for domination, but for peace and dignity.
That spirit is enshrined in our Constitution, one of the most progressive in the world. The policy of national reconciliation wasn’t just a government initiative—it was an extension of how Namibians have always strived to live: side by side, with tolerance and mutual respect.
An “Institute of Integration”
In a world increasingly defined by social and ethnic conflict, Namibia stands out. Our society is not fractured by religion, language, or race in the way others are. Yes, we recognise our differences, but they do not govern policy or interpersonal relationships.
We should take pride in that. Namibia has the potential to become an “Institute of Integration”—a place where the world can come to learn about coexistence and interdependence, both with each other and with the land we share.
But Let’s Not Pretend Differences Don’t Exist
Yet there’s a dangerous trend I’ve noticed: we’ve gone so far in trying to eliminate tribalism and racism that we now refuse to acknowledge difference at all. Our national census omits data on cultural or tribal affiliation, as if ignoring diversity will somehow unify us. (This has changed with the latest Census in 2024, but figures of how people see themselves according to race are not yet out.)
But denial is not the same as unity. Even South Africa, with its painful legacy of apartheid, embraces the concept of a “rainbow nation.” Recognition of difference, not erasure, is what fosters inclusion.
Namibia outlawed discrimination based on gender, but we still collect gender data to inform policy and promote equity. Why not do the same with race and culture? How else can we monitor progress, identify gaps, and uplift marginalised communities—like the San people, whose cultural representation in education is vital?
The Risk of Cultural Erasure
Lack of cultural recognition has real consequences. Consider the East German children who returned to Namibia after Independence—alienated and disoriented. Or the children of war veterans and, increasingly, AIDS orphans, all seeking not just support, but cultural belonging.
What culture will these young people inherit? Namlish? Football chants? Biltong and braais? There is indeed a shared national culture, but it cannot exist without anchoring in the diverse cultural tapestries that make up Namibia.
Identity as a Tool, Not a Threat
In marketing, we learn that understanding your customer is key. We segment by age, income, gender—and yes, race or ethnicity. Why? Because people’s needs differ, and effective service delivery requires tailored solutions.
Namibia should take a similar approach. Our census must begin to measure the race and cultural identity of residents. Not to divide us, but to help us understand ourselves better. If we want inclusive development, we must be willing to ask hard questions and gather honest data.
Our universities must lead the way—conducting research into the racial, gender, and cultural inequalities that still shape livelihoods. We need to study urban and rural disparities, the dynamics of the informal economy, and the geography of poverty. Only then can we empower our people in a meaningful and equitable way.
The Path Forward
Our goal should never be to deny difference. It should be to understand it, celebrate it, and use that understanding to build a more just and cohesive society. Unity in Namibia cannot mean uniformity. It must mean mutual respect, recognition, and responsibility.
Namibia has come a long way, but true integration means asking: Who is being left behind? Who isn’t being seen? Only then can we fulfil the promise of our reconciliation—and offer the world a real lesson in peaceful coexistence.
