Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The newly launched Nanso Veterans Association (NVA) has pledged to promote the welfare of its members and contribute to building a just and inclusive Namibian society.
The association was launched over the week at Döbra, on the outskirts of Windhoek. NVA’s president George Mayumbelo said the association would also focus on improving the lives of former student activists.
“The NVA will promote the welfare of the veterans and contribute positively to the realisation of a just and inclusive Namibian society,” he said.
The association brings together former members of the Namibia National Students Organisation (Nanso), recognising their role in Namibia’s independence and advancing quality education.
At the founding conference, the NVA adopted its constitution and elected office bearers.
Mayumbelo was elected president, with Nambata Kalomo Ulenga as vice president and Phanuel Kaapama as secretary general.
Jackey Onesmus was chosen as treasurer, Faustinus Shiyambi Wakudumo as secretary for veterans’ affairs, and Pretronella Coetzee-Masabane as secretary for economic and social development affairs.
Four additional members were elected to the leadership structure: Lucius Slow Murorua, Sandra !Owoses, Twiggy Nicanor, and Wilfried Brock.
The association noted that membership is open to former card-bearing Nanso members and activists from 1984 to 1995.
The association urged all eligible members to join in what it called “this historic march in the spirit of solidarity, service, and nation-building.”
Mayumbelo outlined its objectives, which include supporting and advocating for former members, fostering solidarity within Namibia and abroad, and providing mentorship and resources for academic, social, and economic empowerment.
Mayumbelo said it also aims to promote solutions to challenges faced by veterans while contributing to national development.
