The opening of the Namibia-Bremen Partnership Exhibition was launched in Windhoek.
The exhibition, aimed at showcasing the ongoing collaboration between Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, and Bremen, Germany, reflects the long-standing commitment and support from Bremen to Namibia during the struggle for independence dating back to the early 70s.
The exhibition not only reflected on the shared history between Windhoek and Bremen, but it also served as a testament to the power of partnerships built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared goals.
The relationship has grown from the seeds of a historical connection to one that encompasses a wide range of collaborations ranging in areas of governance, infrastructure, education, and culture.
"The people of Namibia and Bremen share a history of friendship dating back to the years of Namibia's liberation struggle when the people of Bremen stood in solidarity with the cause of Namibia. We have learnt of the support rendered by what was known as the Solidarity Movement and Project Namibia initiatives by individual Bremen friends of Namibia."
On his part, the Mayor of Bremen, Andreas Bovenschulte, said, "When we look at the exhibition, we realise how many of Namibia's key political players were involved in the partnership. From the first president of Namibia, Sam Nujoma, to the current president, Nangolo Mbumba, you can see them all in the pictures, and I am honoured to say that many of them have been in Bremen. But we are also here today to look to the future. The basis on which we are doing this is impressive. It is thanks to the aforementioned players that we are able today to successfully work together on forward-looking projects."
Speaker of the National Assembly, Professor Peter Katjavivi, reflected on the relationship, saying it serves as a bridge connecting cultures, people, and the future that has withstood the test of time during and after independence.
"Today, as we gather here for this exhibition, we are reminded of the importance of international partnerships in an ever-changing world. The challenges we face, whether economic, social, or environmental, are global in nature, and they require global solutions. It is through partnerships like this one we celebrate today that we find innovative ways to overcome these challenges together."
The exhibition will be put on display in the National Museum of Namibia.