Namibia celebrates 66th anniversary of Cuban Revolution, calls for end to US sanctions

The triumph of the Cuban Revolution is not only a special day for the Cuban people but also one cherished by Namibians, president Nangolo Mbumba says.

Mbumba on Wednesday congratulated his Cuban counterpart, president Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez on the 66th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution.

Cuba gained its independence on 1 January 1959.

“Given the strong bond of friendship existing between the two nations and peoples, the Cuban triumph is not only a special day for the heroic

Cuban people, but equally it is a day that is cherished by Namibians,” Mbumba said.

He highlighted the historic and fraternal bonds between the two nations, inspired by the unwavering solidarity of the late commander in chief, Fidel Castro Ruz.

His decision to send Cuban internationalist fighters to Angola to fight alongside Angolan and Namibian combatants was a pivotal moment in Namibia’s struggle for independence, Mbumba noted.

“I join your excellency’s celebration with vivid delightful memories of having recently visited your great nation, where I had the unforgettable honour and privilege of receiving the Order of José Marti,” he said.

Mbumba is the third Namibian president to receive the National Order of José Marti. The honour was first bestowed on Namibia’s founding president Sam Nujoma, and later posthumously awarded to the late Hage Geingob, the third president of Namibia.

“On this joyous occasion, let me wish your excellency continued good health, renewed fortitude, as well as the assurances of my highest consideration and esteem,” Mbumba added.

Namibia has long emphasised its support for Cuba, consistently condemning the economic sanctions imposed by the United States (US) for more than 60 years.

Two weeks ago, a march took place on the Caribbean island where hundreds of thousands of Cubans, led by president Bermúdez and former president Raúl Castro, called for an end to the US blockade and Cuba’s removal from the list of states sponsoring terrorism.

During the march, president Bermúdez criticised the prolonged blockade and its impact on Cuba.

“When financial transactions are persecuted and impeded in our international trade, the Cuban people are being denied food, medicine, fuel, goods, supplies and merchandise essential for their survival,” he said.

Global leaders and personalities have also urged US president Joe Biden to act decisively to remove Cuba from the list of states sponsoring terrorism.