Last Wednesday - 21st March - it was Namibian Independence Day. This not too distant day in 1990 marked when Namibia gained their independence after being colonised by the Germans from 1884. I'll leave it to you to wikipedia the history if you are interested since I am not the best person to explain it.
Whilst in Windhoek, the German influence was very apparant still in the street names. Also Afrikaans is a West German language and so the history with Germany is always visibile.
Since it marks such an important day for Namibia and their struggle for independence we held a celebration. This came in the form of a brai (barbecue) with lots, and I mean LOTS, of Namibian meat. We even had 'real potato chips' ordered in - the mass variety of crisps here in the UK just does not cut it for Namibian Independence Day!
With the sun coming out for the occassion a short Namibian history was presented by AM and a few words spoken by other volunteers. Namibian music was played throughout and I was instantly taken back to the early hours in Rundu when the same tracks were constantly played by some nearby room or house at full volume.
Later on the GX team took to the ice rink. For many it was their first time on ice. AM had a valiant effort, entering through one gate, edging along the wall to the next and not returning after. Others stuck at it and despite lots of falls everyone had a great time and was a great way to end a lovely day.
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