Namibia Heritage Week 2026 was commemorated from September 17 to 18 at the National Museum of Namibia and surrounding historical sites in Windhoek.
The two-day event was co-hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), Rob Youth Foundation, the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC), and the National Museum of Namibia. Held under the theme “Preserving Heritage for Future Generations,” the event brought together over 200 participants, including youth, government representatives, heritage institutions, and civil society organizations. The organizers stated that the programme was designed based on the recognition that preserving history and cultural heritage forms the foundation for social integration and sustainable peace.
The first day, September 17, featured a Heritage, Culture, and Peace Education Programme, including an introduction to the history of Heritage Week, presentations linking peace and heritage, cultural performances, and guided tours of the museum and natural sciences exhibitions. Participants exchanged views on the pivotal role of youth in heritage preservation.
During the event, Mr. Elione Calunga, Namibian Branch Manager of HWPL, emphasized youth engagement, stating, “Young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but the custodians of today.” Mr. Boyson Ngondo, Deputy Director of MEIYSAC-EIAC, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, noted, “The peace achieved by our fore-bearers is central to our national identity, and the current generation holds the responsibility to sustain it for future generations.” Hon. Sanet Steenkamp, Minister of MEIYSAC, made a surprise visit to the venue and encouraged participants, highlighting that embracing integrity, compassion, and care while celebrating cultural diversity defines the Namibian identity.
On September 18, the second day focused on practical activities for the youth. Participants took part in a 0.8-kilometer Heritage Week Peace Walk, followed by a clean- up campaign around the Independence Memorial Museum, Alte Feste, and the National Museum of Namibia. They also completed a handprint-painted Namibian flag artwork, which was officially handed over by HWPL to MEIYSAC for display at the National Museum of Namibia as part of the country’s heritage record. Gabriela Jeronimo, Executive Director of Rob Youth Foundation, remarked that the event served as an opportunity for youth to reconnect with their roots and share cultural values.
This event was held as part of global solidarity peace activities commemorating the anniversary of the ‘September 18th HWPL World Peace Summit.’ During the same period (September 17–19), the ‘Global Youth Peace Program’ took place in the Republic of Korea under the theme “We Are the Living Heritage,” where youth participants from around the world visited historical sites, engaged in cross-cultural dialogue, and discussed practical peace initiatives.
Meanwhile, according to HWPL, as of August 2026, the organization has approximately 630,000 members worldwide. Individuals and organizations interested in participating in HWPL’s peace initiatives and international campaigns commemorating the September 18th World Peace Summit, or wishing to become members, can find more information and apply for membership through HWPL’s official website (www.hwpl.kr).
