The Chairperson of the Nama Traditional Leaders Association (NTLA), Gaob Johannes Isaack, has urged Nama communities to take charge of their pursuit of justice for the Nama genocide that occurred during the German colonial era.
He made this call during a gathering held in Keetmanshoop, which was organized by the association to update the Nama communities on its genocide reparations campaign.
Addressing the attendees, Isaack emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and ownership within the Nama communities as key to achieving meaningful change.
Johannes Isaack, Chairperson of NTLA, stated:
"If we fail to pursue justice, we will remain trapped in poverty. My call today is for us to stay vigilant in our efforts to improve our lives and those of future generations. This can only be achieved by working together."
Deputy Chairperson of the association, Gaob Dawid Hanse, reiterated their stance on direct negotiations with Germany for reparations, with the Namibian government acting as mediator. He said:
"I often stress that this genocide reparation is our last remaining chance for success."
Several community members present also shared their personal experiences and narratives related to the genocide.