Indigenous Voices, Pathways to a Sustainable Future

From July 16-19, 2024, a crucial stakeholder engagement workshop was held in Otjiwarongo, Namibia, to develop the Namibian National Action Plan

for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages. Organized by the UNESCO, Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare (MGEPESW), and Palms for Life, the workshop gathered representatives from various indigenous communities from around namibia, government agencies, and NGOs to discuss the preservation, revitalization and usage of Namibia’s indigenous languages and knowledge systems. The workshop focused on creating strategies for the action plan to promote indigenous languages and knowledge. Participants engaged in roundtable discussions and presentations about the preservation, revitalization, and use of Namibia’s indigenous languages, covering various themes, including policy-making, education, health, and more. A key outcome was the commitment to building strong partnerships and ensuring that indigenous communities lead the development and implementation of the national action plan. This collaborative approach aims to safeguard Namibia’s cultural heritage and promote an inclusive, sustainable future. For more information, contact Nashilongo Amutenya at rn.amutenya@unesco.org or Rebecca Namwandi at Rebekka.Namwandi@mgepesw.gov.na.