Namibia welcomes descendants of genocide survivors in ongoing restorative justice effort

The Namibian government has welcomed nearly 100 Batswana of Herero descendants back to their ancestral land in a historic step toward restorative justice. These descendants are the offspring of those who fled German South West Africa, now Namibia, during the 1904-1908 genocide, seeking refuge in what is now Botswana.

As part of this reconciliation effort, Namibia has made five commercial farms available for the resettlement of the returnees, marking a significant move toward healing and restoration.

At the Dobe Border Post, a key transit point between Botswana and Namibia, John Kandjii and other clan elders gathered to light the “Holy Fire,” symbolically calling upon their ancestors for guidance and protection as they returned to their homeland after over 120 years. Kandjii emphasized the importance of the moment, recalling how the Ovaherero were united before borders separated them during the Berlin Conference.

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Although Namibia was prepared to receive 98 returnees, 50 individuals crossed the border on Friday, with the rest awaiting livestock quarantine clearances before joining. The government has established a 20-hectare reception area at Gam, where the returnees will transition into life in Namibia. From there, they will eventually relocate to the commercial farms provided for them.

Governor James Uerikua of the Otjozondjupa region emphasized the preparations made to welcome the returnees, noting that Namibian authorities are committed to supporting their reintegration. At Gam, the returnees will receive essential services, including hospital cards, identification documents, and education placements for their children.

Infrastructure improvements, such as potable water, sewage systems, and electricity, have been prioritized to ensure the community is well-equipped for the transition.

This moment reflects Namibia’s continued commitment to restorative justice and reconciliation for the descendants of those impacted by the genocide.