Honouring the Legacy: Upholding the President’s Vision on Inclusivity

In the wake of the passing of president Hage Geingob, it is imperative for us as a nation to not only reflect on but make his benevolent aspirations a reality.

Throughout his tenure, the president championed a vision of caring and unity, encapsulated in his ambitious and cherished Namibian House – the Harambee Prosperity Plan.

I fondly recall an encounter with the president during my involvement with students under the SRC and the Namibia National Students’ Organisation (Nanso).

The memory remains a testament to his humility and humour.

Central to president Geingob’s noble ambitions was his unwavering desire to uplift people with disabilities and the elderly, advocating for a substantial increase in their social grants.

Recognising the significant contribution of people with disabilities to Namibia’s socio-economic fabric, the president acknowledged the challenges they face, including job discrimination.

To address these disparities and uphold principles enshrined in international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other Bills of Rights, the government extended social grants to assist and empower this marginalised demographic.

EMPOWERMENT

Similarly, pensioners, often left in poverty, found solace in these grants, becoming caretakers for their grandchildren as their own children migrated from rural to urban Namibia in pursuit of employment and survival.

In honouring our late president’s memory, it is imperative for the government to translate his vision into tangible actions.

His dedication to inclusivity, social justice, care for the vulnerable and prosperity for all should not be relegated to the back benches.
Rather, it demands a renewed commitment to realising the objectives he passionately championed.

To this end, it becomes the government’s responsibility to redouble its efforts in providing increased social grants for people with disabilities and pensioners, thereby helping ensure their dignity, well-being and active participation in the socio-economic landscape.

President Geingob’s vision sought to create a Namibian House where every citizen, regardless of ability or age, could enjoy the fruits of development.
His emphasis on empathy and unity resonated with the principles of social justice and inclusivity.

It is paramount that his vision remains a beacon of hope and a blueprint for an equitable Namibia.

ONWARD EVER

To honour president Geingob’s wishes, the government should take concrete steps to address the challenges people with disabilities and pensioners face.

This requires a comprehensive review of the existing social grant framework.

In addition, efforts should be intensified to eliminate discriminatory practices in the workplace and society in general, providing equal opportunities for people with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.

In marking the late president’s legacy, it is crucial to recognise the intrinsic link between inclusivity and national development.

By continuing to prioritise the needs of people with disabilities and pensioners, the government will not only fulfil the president’s wishes but also fortify the foundations of a compassionate and prosperous Namibia.
I urge the government to view the late president’s aspirations as a call to action.

It is an opportunity to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to equality, justice and compassion, thereby ensuring that the president’s legacy endures as a guiding force in shaping Namibia’s future.

• Brian Ngutjinazo, activist for people with disabilities, and a law scholar.