There are moments in a nation’s story that unite us, moments when pride transcends tribe, language, and region. One such moment is upon us. Johanna Swartbooi, Miss Namibia 2024, is halfway across the world representing our beautiful country at the Miss Universe pageant. She carries not only her grace and intelligence but also the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. Yet, instead of celebrating her achievement, some Namibians have chosen to shame and ridicule her.
What a disgrace.
In the age of supposed enlightenment, where the Namibian youth are expected to be the torchbearers of progress, inclusion, and unity, we find ourselves staring at the ugly spectre of tribalism again. And this time, it’s not whispered behind closed doors or hidden in private conversations. It’s paraded openly on social media platforms, where words cut deep and ignorance spreads like wildfire.
Let’s be clear: the ridicule aimed at Johanna Swartbooi is not only cruel and unfounded; it is steeped in prejudice and tribal pettiness. Some comments circulating online reduce a national ambassador to her ethnic background, dismissing her achievements, talent, and beauty simply because she comes from Vaalgras, because she is Nama.
This is not just offensive; it is shameful.
How have we, as a society, failed so badly that young Namibians, the so-called digital generation, the supposed champions of the future, are still shackled by the same outdated tribalism that once divided our ancestors? How can we, in 2025, with all the progress we’ve made, still hear young voices echoing the same backward sentiments that have no place in a modern, democratic Namibia?
Let’s remind ourselves: Johanna Swartbooi is a Namibian. Her triumph is Namibia’s triumph. Her platform is Namibia’s stage. When she steps onto that Miss Universe runway, the world will not see “Nama.” The world will see Namibia. The flag on her sash does not read “Vaalgras”—it reads “Namibia”.
It is deeply troubling that those tearing her down online are not from an older generation clinging to the past but from our youth, the very group we rely on to shape a better, more united tomorrow. Tribalism among the youth is not just a social problem; it’s a national crisis in the making.
This toxic behaviour exposes something rotten beneath our surface, a failure to instil national pride that transcends tribe. Our schools, our homes, and our institutions must now confront the uncomfortable truth that we are raising digital citizens who preach unity online but practise division behind anonymous screens.
The hypocrisy is staggering. These same young Namibians will flood social media when international celebrities mention Namibia, basking in borrowed pride. Yet when one of their own carries the nation’s name into a global competition, they tear her down because of where she comes from.
Is this the Namibia our liberation heroes fought for? A Namibia where one’s tribe still dictates whether they deserve admiration or respect?
No, this cannot be who we are.
Johanna’s journey should have been a rallying point, a unifying celebration of Namibian womanhood, resilience, and diversity. Instead, we have turned it into a mirror reflecting our insecurities and divisions. We have forgotten that Miss Namibia is not chosen merely for her physical beauty but for her intellect, compassion, and ability to represent the mosaic that makes this nation unique.
Let us also not forget that Johanna Swartbooi earned her crown. She stood among fierce competitors, and through hard work, intelligence, and grace, she won. That victory was not gifted to her; it was earned. And for anyone to demean that achievement through tribal slurs and baseless ridicule is to spit in the face of merit itself.
To those hurling insults online, understand this: your words say more about you than they ever could about Johanna. They expose your insecurity, your ignorance, and your refusal to embrace a Namibia that is larger than your narrow worldview.
Tribalism is a coward’s refuge. It is the last refuge of those who have nothing else to offer. It diminishes us all economically, socially, and morally. And every time we indulge it, we take another step away from the inclusive, united Namibia we claim to love.
The youth of this country must rise above this. You are the first generation truly connected to the world, global citizens in every sense. Use that privilege to uplift, not destroy. Use your platforms to promote unity, not division. Use your words to build, not to belittle.
As the Miss Universe competition unfolds, every Namibian, regardless of tribe, region, or background, should rally behind Johanna Swartbooi. Let us flood social media not with hate, but with messages of encouragement. Let her know that her country stands with her, proud and united.
Because when Johanna takes that stage, she carries all of us. Her confidence, her poise, and her intelligence are reflections of Namibian womanhood, of Namibian strength, and of the Namibian spirit that refuses to bow to prejudice.
Let us be better. Let us prove that we have grown beyond the petty tribal lines that colonialism drew for us. Let us show the world that Namibia’s true beauty lies not just in its landscapes but in its people – diverse, proud, and united.
To Johanna Swartbooi: Namibia sees you, celebrates you, and stands behind you. Bring that crown home.
And to those still trapped in the darkness of tribalism: it’s time to wake up. The rest of Namibia has moved on.
