Group 37 swearing-in ceremony

I wanted to share some notes from the Group 37 Peace Corps Namibia swearing-in ceremony which took place yesterday. Our MC Ehrens Mbamanavandu began by remembering the words of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, the founder of Peace Corps. Kennedy urged Americans to “dream to serve not only your country, but the world.” Today, more than 1,200 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in Namibia.

The Right Honourable Hage Geingob, Prime Minister of Namibia, was the keynote speaker. He reflected on where Namibia is today after such a long struggle for independence. He said that during the liberation movement, Namibia was a country of hatred, but reflected on how far the country has come. Today, Namibia is a peaceful, democratic society. He talked about the “new Africa” and honoured the Namibians who were sent into exile, jailed and even killed, paying the true price for freedom. He said his vision for Namibia’s future is to address unemployment, income inequality, structural inequalities, issues of safe and secure housing, and to bolster science, innovation and technology.

The United States Ambassador to Namibia, The Honorable Ms. Wanda Nesbitt was also present, and said that, “for many Americans, the Peace Corps remains the highest ideal of public service.” She affirmed the mission and vision of Namibia, and praised Namibia as an ideal partner country. Nesbitt reminded us that the Peace Corps is worthy of our very best efforts, stating that “the challenge of the Peace Corps will be one of the most rewarding of your life.” She encouraged us to remember the ideals embodied by the U.S. Peace Corps: freedom, tolerance and respect. She also urged us to remain genuinely ourselves and to remember to honour and respect the role models that inspired us to pursue the Peace Corps. To the many people who have helped, encouraged and inspired me to pursue this path: THANK YOU!