The commemoration of National Heritage and Cultural Diversity Day was held at the Oshana Police Regional Headquarters, bringing together the community.
Speaking at the event, Elenga Enene of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority, Herman Iipumbu, reminded Namibians, particularly the youth, of the importance of maintaining and respecting their cultural values, identities, traditions and norms.
"Commissioner Shilelo, please teach our newly recruited cadet constables that their first salary should be shared with their parents. They should take their first pay home and share it with their parents, guardians and respected elders as a sign of gratitude, respect and remembrance. In our culture, honouring those who raised and supported you opens the way for their blessings, good wishes, and guidance as you begin a new chapter in life."
The nation he said needs to address issues of cohabitation, gender-based violence, the mushrooming of churches, and inadequate parental guidance of children.
Oshana Police Commander Andreas Shilelo said the police and stakeholders are working together to educate the public, especially about issues such as the mushrooming Angolan street vendors who sell items.
Commissioner Shilelo appealed to guardians of Angolan children to ensure that children are sent to school rather than being left on the streets to sell goods.
"Explain to them the culture of Namibia when it comes to children of that age: they need to go to school; they are the people who are at the stage of parenting; they don't need to sell, I believe, and trust that we are going to do it together."
The Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge, in a speech delivered on his behalf, stressed that the preservation of Namibia's heritage should not be left to traditional authorities, government institutions or cultural organisations alone.
"We must therefore protect, preserve, and promote it for future generations to come. Namibia is a country rich in cultural diversity; we have different languages, traditions, and customs, yet we remain one people."