Namibian freedom fighter Helao Shityuwete, who was imprisoned alongside Andimba Toivo ya Toivo at Robben Island, was among the veterans honoured at the island’s museum on Saturday.
Over the weekend the Robben Island Museum, led by the South African government, unveiled six statues of former political prisoners, including Ya Toivo’s.
The museum unveiled a wall of remembrance, featuring Shityuwete among the 5 000 names listed.
Speaking to Desert FM on Monday Shityuwete’s son, Freddy, who attended the event on behalf of his family, described the moment as deeply moving.
“I felt extremely proud to see not only my father’s name, but all the names being honoured. To have a physical representation set in stone is fantastic, something you can visit and marvel at,” he said.
Freddy recalled his father’s lasting lesson: forgiveness without forgetfulness.
“We must lead with empathy, but never forget the injustices of the past so they don’t repeat themselves,” he said.
Freddy said Namibia’s younger generation is not being taught enough about the liberation struggle.
“In school, we learned more about European wars than our own fight for freedom. We should be doing so much more to preserve our history.”
Honouring the few surviving former Robben Island prisoners is important, Freddy said.
“We need to record their stories while they are still with us. It was incredible to be in their presence, and with the families who supported them through the struggle. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten,” he said.
He said the commemoration served as a reminder that Namibia’s independence came at a heavy price, one that continues to demand remembrance, empathy, and unity for future generations.
