The South African High Commission observed a night of song and dance to pay homage to women and their role in society, particularly during the liberation struggle from apartheid rule.

The festivities, which took place in Windhoek, included traditional meals in both Namibia and South Africa, to buttress unity and deepen interaction between the people of both countries.

Speaking to nbc News on the sidelines of the function, South Africa's High Commissioner in Namibia, Thenjiwe Mtintso, expressed joy with the large turnout, saying it reflects the sound relations between the two countries and similarities in cultures and tradition, stretching back to the pre-colonial and apartheid eras.

Mtintso says Namibia and South Africa have signed at least 18 memoranda of understanding and agreements on issues pertaining to a plethora of sectors, including women's and youth empowerment.

Meanwhile, South Africa's Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, emphasised the need for non-state actors, such as non-governmental organisations and the private sector, to join such platforms.

Botes, a seasoned politician in the African National Congress, says Namibia remains a pivotal partner in trade relations with South Africa and the broader African continent, saying he feels deep gratitude for the growing levels of trade across the continent following the ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Botes says South Africa's trade volumes across Africa have surpassed exports to the European Union, which reflects growing cooperation and integration on the continent.

The Governor of the Khomas Region, Laura McLeod-Katjirua, said the observance of shared cultural heritage between the two countries has proved beneficial in sustaining historically formed ties. 

Several artists, including The Soil, Erna Chimu, poet Lebo Mashile, and nine-year-old Sale Akwaake, entertained a crowd that included former Prime Minister Nahas Angula and captains of industry from both countries.