The 42 members of the National Council have collectively donated N$27 609 towards the Namibia-Cuba Solidarity Campaign, with council chairperson Lukas Muha saying Namibia must stand with Cuba during its time of hardship.
The contribution was handed over to representatives of the Namibia-Cuba Solidarity Campaign, led by ambassador Tuliameni Kalomoh, in Windhoek on Thursday.
Muha said the donation was a recognition of Cuba’s historical contribution to Namibia’s liberation struggle and its continued support after independence, particularly in health and education.
“One cannot narrate the history of Namibia’s liberation without acknowledging the significant role played by the people and government of Cuba,” Muha said.
He said Cuba stood with Namibians during the colonial era, providing material assistance and sacrificing lives in support of the liberation struggle.
Muha said the relationship between the two countries was therefore built on “shared history, solidarity and sacrifice”, rather than merely diplomatic relations.
He said Namibia could not ignore Cuba’s current difficulties, which he attributed partly to the economic embargo by the United States and other challenges facing the country.
“Namibia cannot simply fold its hands and look away when a friend is experiencing hardship, because we are a child of international solidarity, including Cuba,” Muha said.
He said solidarity should be reciprocal and demonstrated through action, particularly when friends are in need.
The Namibia-Cuba Solidarity Campaign, launched in Windhoek on 22 April, seeks to mobilise financial and material assistance, including medical supplies, for Cuba.
It is spearheaded by the Namibia-Cuba Friendship Association and the Sam Nujoma Foundation.
Muha said although the N$27 609 collected for the campaign was modest compared with Cuba’s challenges, its significance lay in the spirit behind the contribution.
