World Indigenous Peoples Day was celebrated at Outapi in Omusati under the theme "Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-Determination".

In a speech delivered on his behalf, Deputy Minister of Marginalised Communities, Royal ǀUiǀoǀoo, highlighted that this day is a dedicated occasion to honour the human rights, dignity, and fundamental freedoms of indigenous peoples.

"The United Nations General Assembly on December 23, 1994, in its resolution 49/214, decided that the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples shall be observed on the 9th of August every year, a day that marks the first meeting of the UN working group on indigenous population in 1982."

The United Nations permanent forum on indigenous issues expanded on the mandate for indigenous peoples by giving attention to the evolution of international standards concerning indigenous people's rights.

The Namibian government cemented its legislative commitment by ratifying the United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples when it was tabled in 2007.

"This year, the United Nations forum on indigenous issues stressed the role that young people play in the preservation of their ecosystems, culture, and values as pioneers for sustainable biodiversity and preservation and their subsequent need to be on the front-line of climate emergency response."

He called on indigenous youth to uphold and promote inter-generational dialogue to ensure that marginalised communities, indigenous minorities, languages, cultures, and values are preserved.

This should include self-promotion for economic emancipation, adding that indigenous youth should take their education seriously to enable them to enter high levels of leadership, secure employment, and direct their own future.

UNESCO Head of Education Sector Ehrens Mbamanovandu says the world's indigenous peoples are the guardians of profound cultural traditions, distinct languages, and ancestral knowledge systems that have been passed on from generation to generation.

'Their vibrant cultures have not only shaped their identities but also hold the key to fostering mutual understanding, dialogue  and respect among all nations."