Namibia takes the floor to congratulate Your Excellency Dr. John Pombe Joseph Magufuli, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, and outgoing Chairperson of SADC, for the successful conclusion of your tenure at the helm of our regional organization. I equally congratulate, Your Excellency President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi for taking over the leadership of SADC at a very difficult time for our region and humanity at large.

On this day, 54 years ago, Namibians crossed the point of no return in the fight against colonial occupation. On this day, August 26, 1966, our freedom fighters launched their first armed attack on a South African military contingent at Omugulu-Gwombashe. On this day, Namibians decided to become their own liberators.

Today, as we mark the commemoration of Heroes Day, we reflect on those distinguished patriots, whose bravery, foresight, fortitude and love of country has left an indelible mark on the legacy of Namibia. It is therefore my honour to join all Namibians, across the length and breadth of this country, to share in the pride of commemorating these exemplary men and women, whose deeds embody the ethos of heroism.

Your Excellency, Volkan Bozkir, President of the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly,

Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,

Your Excellency Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I wish to thank the Prime Ministers of Canada and Jamaica, as well as the Secretary General of the United Nations for organizing this important high-level event.

Greetings from Africa and Namibia in particular. Africa is on the march. At present, the Third Wave African leaders are dealing with processes, systems and institutions. However, the challenges of realizing the potential of the New Africa have never been greater.

Meeting with Secretary General, Cde Sophia Shaningwa together with National Leaders and Regional leadership of the SWAPO Party.

Our SWAPO Party Candidates are SWAPO Party cadres, who are fully committed to represent their constituencies.

At around 1652, the Dutch had already made their mark in search of spheres of influence in the Cape, South Africa. At this time, Namibia, then South West Africa, was largely peaceful and a home to agricultural and pastoral communities mainly the San, Herero, Owambo, Damara and Nama.

Through a long, bitter and protracted struggle for national independence and freedom, SWAPO made a name for itself Nationally and Internationally. It became a Political Party of the people.