The Swapo Party celebrated its 66th anniversary on 19 April, commemorating over six decades of leadership in Namibia’s liberation struggle and nation-building efforts. In her address, Swapo Party President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah called on the party to position itself strategically with a clear focus on national interest, while remaining steadfast in its founding principles and values.

“Times demand that the party act with clarity, confidence, and purpose,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized, reflecting on the party’s journey since its formation on 19 April 1960.

For six and a half decades, Swapo has been a pillar of courage, solidarity, and principled leadership, spearheading Namibia’s fight for independence and guiding the country toward economic advancement and prosperity for all.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah paid tribute to the party’s founding leaders, notably the late founding president Sam Nujoma, whose leadership carried forward the movement’s mission. She also honored the forefathers of Namibia’s national resistance, acknowledging traditional leaders whose courage laid the foundation for the liberation struggle, including Chief Samuel Maharero, King Mandume yaNdemufayo, King Iipumbu yaTshirongo, Chief Jacob Marengo, Chief Kahimemua Nguvauva, Captain Hendrik Witbooi, Hompa Kandjimi Hauwanga, and Hompa Muduva Nyangana.

Recognizing the vital role of workers in the party’s formation, Nandi-Ndaitwah urged Namibians to reaffirm their commitment to the basic principles that have sustained the nation: Solidarity, Freedom, and Justice.

“The times have changed, and so have the expectations of our people. Independence gave us political freedom. Today, our people expect that freedom translates into opportunities, including jobs, access to land and housing, quality health care and education, and a dignified life,” she said.

In light of these evolving expectations, the party must remain focused on developing clear and implementable policies and ensuring their effective implementation to meet the needs of the Namibian people.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah also acknowledged the creativity, ambition, and civic engagement of the youth within the party, while recognizing the veterans who continue to provide moral guidance and continuity.

She concluded by calling on the nation to move forward united, with discipline, clarity of purpose, and a shared commitment to building a Namibia that delivers for its people today and for generations to come.