The Ovambanderu community gathered in Okahandja to remember the aggressive and colonial land appropriation policies carried out by imperial German authorities during the late 1800s.

During the commemoration event, commonly referred to as the Green Flag Celebrations, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba acknowledged the late chief of the Ovambanderu, Kahimemua Nguvauva, as one of Namibia's revered heroes.

Nguvauva paid the highest sacrifice as he was executed on June 12, 1896.

Individuals of all ages from across the country gathered in Okahandja to pay their respects to the fallen chiefs.

The day primarily serves as a commemoration of the historic battle that took place on May 6, 1896.

This battle holds great significance as it marked the beginning of events when the German colonial authorities established themselves in the then Otjomuise/ Ai-||Gams around 1884.

Vice President Nangolo Mbumba highlighted that numerous German colonial soldiers were killed and many others sustained injuries during the Battle of Otjunda.

The graves of these German soldiers can still be found at the battle site, which is now known as Farm Sturmfeld.

Mbumba further noted that a considerable number of Chief Kahimemua Nguvauva's soldiers also lost their lives in the battle.

He said it was disheartening to see that the graves of Nguvauva's soldiers remain unmarked to this day, a poignant reminder of their sacrifice and the need for their memory to be properly honoured.

"I, therefore, call upon the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture, which is the custodian of our national heritage, to ensure that a befitting shrine is laid at Otjunda and other historical places such as Okatumba, Vaalgras, and Ozombuzovindimba, among others, where our communities fought German forces of occupation and apartheid colonial forces. It is only in this manner that we will truly honour the sacrifices of our forefathers who stood firm against colonial occupation."

Mbumba emphasised his fervent desire for a definitive and lasting resolution to be achieved regarding the dark, painful, and emotionally charged chapter of brutal attacks perpetrated by the Germans.

He expressed this wish in the best interests of the affected communities and the Namibian nation as a whole.

During the commemoration, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, urged traditional authorities to resolve their disputes.

Uutoni reminded the gathered leaders that internal conflicts come at a high cost and possess the potential to disrupt peace and stability in the region.

"As much as we try hard to unite the nation, the experience in the Ministry is that disputes within some of our traditional communities are still persisting, and I will remind you that disputes that are not resolved on time result in conflicts."

Chief of the Ovambanderu, Eben Nguvauva, also called for unity.

"I am thankful for all who sacrificed their time to come and witness and be part of the commemoration of the Ovambanderu."