Despite challenges, Namibia has laid a strong foundation built on collective identity and perseverance.

War veteran Alfred Ilukena reflected on the country's journey to independence.

Ilukena recalled a painful past under apartheid, where divisions were designed to isolate communities and weaken national unity.

However, the liberation struggle became a turning point, bringing Namibians together across regions, ethnicities and political lines. 

"We came from a background where unity was really a challenge; however, because of the principles of the commitment that we wanted to liberate ourselves with, the push for the freedom and independence of the country, and the political landscape, it enabled us to team together as a nation both inside and outside, and also we began to break away from the colonial mentality and the colonial structures that made us believe."

This unity has remained one of the country's greatest achievements, with Namibia having avoided civil conflict and maintained peaceful coexistence.

Ilukena underscored that maintaining unity is a continuous process, requiring constant nurturing from future generations.

Despite initial doubts at independence, Namibia faced scepticism regarding its ability to govern itself effectively.

Ilukena said the country has since proven those doubts wrong.

"We don't count numbers; we count our strength and our ability to rise to the occasion, and so, irrespective of the challenges we may have faced, we never ran a government; we were only experienced as a liberation movement turned into a political party, so our leadership is in terms of the structures of government."

Comparing Namibia at independence in 1990 to today, Ilukena pointed to visible progress across sectors and regions. 

"So, in development, I don't need to tell you, those of us who know before and after, we know the Namibia that we found in 1989; if we look at the Namibia that we live in now, 36 years later, I will find it very difficult for anyone to convince me that these two Namibians are the same."

Looking ahead, Ilukena said the responsibility now lies with the younger generations to advance the gains of independence.

He also reflected on Namibia's modest global posture, noting that while the country may not often celebrate its achievements loudly, its progress is evident.

"There are so many good things in this country, but we are not there to praise ourselves so that everyone hears that Namibia is this, Namibia is that, and what have you."

His message is clear: sustaining unity, embracing resilience, and committing to inclusive development will be key to unlocking a prosperous future.