Namibia welcomes home Robben Island prisoners’ remains

Namibia has welcomed home the remains of former Robben Island political prisoners Petrus Niilenge and Festus Nehale, together with ancestral remains repatriated from South Africa after decades away from their homeland.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah received the remains at Hosea Kutako International Airport east of Windhoek on Friday.

In a statement, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the return of the remains represents an effort to restore dignity to those whose lives and sacrifices form part of Namibia’s history.

The homecoming marks a moment of remembrance and national healing as Namibia honours its sons and ancestors and welcomes them back to the land they called home, the president said.

Following a reception ceremony, the remains were taken to the Namibian Police Forensic Science Institute in Windhoek.

The repatriation comes as Namibia continues to honour people who contributed to the country’s liberation struggle and the sacrifices made during the struggle against colonialism and apartheid.