🇳🇦 Namibia Marks 36th Independence Anniversary in Canada: High Commissioner-Designate Delivers Video Message to Diaspora
Washington, D.C. | 21 March 2026
The High Commissioner-designate of the Republic of Namibia to Canada, Mr. Wilbard Hellao, delivered a video-recorded keynote message at the commemoration of Namibia’s 36th Independence Anniversary, hosted by the Namibian Canadian Association in Toronto, Ontario.
In his address, High Commissioner-designate Hellao conveyed warm greetings on behalf of the Embassy of the Republic of Namibia in Washington, D.C., and extended appreciation to the Namibian diaspora and friends of Namibia gathered for the occasion. He commended the Namibian Canadian Association, under the leadership of its President, Mr. Nicolas Hamunjela, for organizing the event and fostering unity among Namibians abroad.
Speaking under the theme “Beyond 36: Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope for Namibians in the Diaspora,” the High Commissioner-designate emphasized the vital role of Namibians living abroad in the country’s development journey. He highlighted their contributions through skills transfer, remittances, and international networks, describing them as “an integral part of Namibia’s proud story.”
The High Commissioner-designate underscored the Government of Namibia’s commitment to a people-centred development agenda under the leadership of Her Excellency President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He outlined key national priorities, including agriculture, youth empowerment, creative industry, quality education and health care, and housing, supported by strategic economic sectors such as mining, energy, oil and gas, tourism, and infrastructure development.
He further noted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between Namibia and Canada, particularly in areas of mining, energy, education, and investment, to unlock new opportunities for mutual growth.
Encouraging continued engagement, the High Commissioner-designate urged Namibians in Canada to remain law-abiding, uphold national values, and actively promote Namibia’s positive image abroad. He also called on citizens to register with the Namibian Embassy to enhance access to consular services and maintain strong connections with the homeland.
Reaffirming the importance of diaspora participation, he invited Namibians in the diaspora to contribute to nation building and by being positive agents benefitting the Land of the Brave.
“Being abroad does not make you any less Namibian. You carry Namibia with you, and Namibia carries you in its vision for the future,” he said.
The commemoration in Toronto brought together Namibians and friends of Namibia in a celebration of the country’s independence, unity, and shared aspirations for a prosperous future.
The Embassy salutes all Namibians in Canada, and the diaspora at large, for carrying the spirit of the Land of the Brave abroad.
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