The launch of the Nationhood and National Pride (NNP) forums in the Oshana, Oshikoto, Omusati and Kunene regions is aimed at promoting patriotism, national pride and unity among Namibians.
Speaking during the official launch of the NNP at Ongwediva on Friday, Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) Stanley Simataa said the forums are aimed at building an inclusive nation.
“We intend to build an inclusive nation where no Namibian feels left out. We intend to build a society where every Namibian fully understands and appreciates their role in contributing to the achievement of our development goals,” he said.
The NNP initiative resulted from presidential directives in 2006 and 2007 to address the problems of tribalism, vandalism, crime, violence against women and children and alcohol abuse among the youth.
The objectives of the NNP are to instil a spirit of nationhood and national pride in all Namibian citizens, consolidate peace and stability, and foster a spirit of belonging.
Simataa said these goals would only be attainable if all stakeholders played their role effectively.
“We can only achieve this if all our citizens can locate their roles and responsibilities within the NNP.
“Society as a whole has a collective responsibility to constantly educate the masses on what it means to be proud and patriotic citizens of this country,” he said.
He said issues such as culture and tradition should not be seen as weapons to divide the nation but should strengthen the nation.
“Our diverse cultures and traditions should not be a source of division but should be a pillar of strength as we march forward in unison in pursuit of our development aspirations,” he advised.
Simataa said the NNP forums should not become dormant or ceremonial structures in the regions but effective transmission belts of critical information and programmes that contribute towards the desired national pride and the consolidation of peace and stability.
KENYA KAMBOWE
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