Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Nangolo Mbumba once again urged the United Nations (UN) to take more decisive action in supporting the people of Western Sahara in their pursuit of self-determination.
The President made this appeal at the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA79), taking place this week in New York, United States of America (USA), where he reiterated Namibia’s commitment to the cause of Western Sahara, Africa’s last colony. The President also clarified Namibia’s stance on several other issues, including its view regarding the people of Gaza.
“Prolonged occupation does not justify or make acceptable the hardships and injustices endured. This is particularly true for the people of Gaza, who continue to be brutally massacred. As a country that has endured genocide, Namibia believes that Israel, by intent and by action, is committing genocide. Namibia continues to call for a ceasefire and for humanitarian assistance to flow unhindered into Gaza,” President Mbumba said.
ADVOCATING FOR PEACE: President Mbumba speaking at the UNGA79. Photo: Namibian Presidency. 
ADVOCATING FOR PEACE: President Mbumba speaking at the UNGA79. Photo: Namibian Presidency. 
ADVOCATING FOR PEACE: President Mbumba speaking at the UNGA79. Photo: Namibian Presidency. 
ADVOCATING FOR PEACE: President Mbumba speaking at the UNGA79. Photo: Namibian Presidency.
He also advocated for an end to the economic, financial, and commercial blockade against the Republic of Cuba, as well as the lifting of sanctions against Zimbabwe.
“Economic hardships continue to affect the sister Republic of Cuba, in stark contrast to the ideals of inclusivity and the goal of leaving no one behind. Namibia calls for the end of the economic, financial, and commercial blockade against Cuba. Namibia calls for the removal of Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. Namibia also reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of illegal sanctions against Zimbabwe, which hinder the country’s capacity to achieve Sustainable Development Goals,” the President said.
He emphasised that Namibia is a child of international solidarity, midwifed by the UN, and believes that the UN can only be strengthened through unity.
“By choosing the way of collaboration over enmity, peaceful dialogue over war and conflict, and de-escalation over escalation, we can achieve our shared goal of a more peaceful, just, and prosperous world,” President Mbumba added.
