Namibia's President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged to help reunite children of Namibian liberation fighters with their families after hearing emotional appeals from residents of Kongwa, where many fighters once lived during the liberation struggle.
During a visit to Kongwa, Tanzania, on June 21, 2026, Nandi-Ndaitwah addressed a gathering of former fighters and their descendants, promising government support for tracing and reunification efforts. The president emphasized the historical significance of Kongwa as a base for the South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO) during the fight for independence from South African rule.
Many children were separated from their parents during the liberation war, which ended with Namibia's independence in 1990. Some were sent abroad for education or safety, while others were born in exile and never knew their extended families. The president's pledge includes establishing a dedicated office to facilitate DNA testing and family tracing.
Local leaders in Kongwa welcomed the announcement, noting that many elderly residents still hope to reconnect with relatives in Namibia. The initiative is expected to begin within the next six months, with support from the Tanzanian government and international organizations.
