Staff Reporter
THE ||Kharas and Hardap regions have gathered in Lüderitz ahead of the annual Genocide Remembrance Day commemoration, with regional leadership rolling out a two-day programme aimed at promoting unity, remembrance, and development through dialogue on heritage, youth empowerment, and inclusive economic growth.
The programme, led by ||Kharas Governor Hon. Dawid Gertze and Hardap Governor Hon. Riaan Charles McNab, forms part of preparatory activities ahead of the commemoration observed annually on 28 May. It brings together government leaders, traditional authorities, youth, and development partners to reflect on shared history while advancing development priorities in the two regions.
A key feature of the programme is the Heritage Meets Development Stakeholder Conference, held under the theme “From Genocide to Renaissance,” which seeks to address concerns and misinformation around development initiatives while strengthening engagement between communities and decision-makers.
The conference places strong emphasis on youth participation, cultural preservation, sustainable development, and ensuring that local communities benefit from present and future economic opportunities. It also provides a platform for open dialogue among traditional leaders, elders, youth, and stakeholders on issues including heritage, environmental impact, and inclusive development.
Addressing the conference, Governor Dawid Gertze encouraged young people to learn from their history while positioning themselves as active contributors to Namibia’s development.
He said the initiative is intended to empower youth in the two regions and prepare them for a changing economic environment, urging them to remain focused despite negative perceptions or criticism.
“The youth must remember that jealousy has a way of creeping into the beauty of an occasion. The youth in both the //Kharas and Hardap are shining, and some people hate that reality. Don’t let other people view you with unsubstantiated accusations and opinions. Carry the flame of hope. Carry the flame of your own future,” Gertze said.
The conference was attended by various stakeholders and dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, as preparations continue for the upcoming Genocide Remembrance Day commemoration at Shark Island.
Photo: Kharas Regional Council
