The South African Embassy in Namibia marked Human Rights Day. Speakers at the event called upon the two countries to use their freedom and democracy to protect, promote and preserve the values and principles of human rights.
Human Rights Day turned into an event to remember Namibia and South Africa's historical past, where the two people shared trenches during the fight for their freedom and independence.
The day which was jointly organized to remember belated Namibia's independence placed an emphasis on strengthening the long-standing bilateral cooperation between Namibia and South Africa, which dates back to the years of the liberation struggle.
South Africa's High Commissioner to Namibia, Thenjiwe Mtintso said, now that the two nations gained their political freedom, there is a need to uphold, protect and promote the values of human rights at all costs.
"We hope that we can unite to promote the culture of human rights as part of building a better Namibia, a better SA, in a better Africa, and in a better world."
Other speakers stressed the importance of upholding the principles of the United Nations Universal Declaration on Human Rights.
A youth representative from the International University of Management Llyod Sikeba called on the current leaders to start passing on the baton of leadership to the youth saying they are ready.
"Let's join hands in this noble quest and stand for the rights of every human being, fellow human beings if necessary, please pass on the baton, we are ready."
After narrating and reminding the attendees of the rich history of the liberation struggle, War Veteran Ben Amadhila advised the youth against taking the leadership by force but to allow nature to take its cause.
" It is your duty to work as hard as you can, but do not kick us old people, we will find our way out, do not kick us out because we could still be useful to your endeavor."
Namibia's Minister of Justice as well as the Deputy Minister of Justice of South Africa explained the interpretation of human rights.
" Even though from an interpretation perceptive, human rights may seem different to different people, it can never mean anything else other than all those rights simply because you are here, they are not meant to be given at will or applied selectively, they are entitlement by virtue of our humanity."
Speakers further stressed the importance of respecting the rights of women, minorities, and vulnerable groups including children and homosexuals.
The day was held under the theme "Better Human Rights against apartheid and colonialism in South Africa and Namibia and the promotion and protection of human rights under democracy."