The importance of striving for peace and justice is once again brought to the forefront as Namibia commemorates Cassinga Day.

During a discussion on Situation Kritikal, retired Lieutenant General Martin Shali, a veteran of the liberation struggle, and Rauna Amutati, president of the Namibian Exile Kids Association (NEKA), emphasized the significance of paying tribute to the victims of the Cassinga massacre and the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made for the country's independence.

This includes the 16 members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba who died on their way to rescue people under what he termed a barbaric attack where innocent unarmed civilians, mainly women, and children, were killed.

As a child of the liberation struggle, Amutati reiterated that it is vital to honour those who lost their lives in the Cassinga massacre, emphasizing the significance of the day.

She said Namibia's independence did not arrive on a silver platter and, thus, dignifying a day like Cassinga Day is essential.