As we approach the end of the year, we often take stock of the preceding months.
What have we achieved? Did our resolutions withstand the pressures of daily life? Will we try again in the new year?
Whether we separate our year into personal and work triumphs and challenges or lump it all together, we must always look towards the future.
The last few months have been hot and bone dry, but December usually kicks off our rainy season.
I think it is a season we cherish like no other country.
For us, it is not just water falling from the sky. It symbolises so much more and is embraced by every Namibian, no matter their background or where they live in our 14 regions.
The rain has a cleansing and nourishing effect, bringing growth to our nation.
MOOD BOOST
From a personal perspective, it fascinates me that we get so excited about rain.
Its impact can be seen in people’s moods: Happiness abounds.
I’m not a farmer so I don’t personally have to worry about crops or cattle.
However, it does please me to see the plants in our garden bloom almost instantly when the rain arrives.
In the same way, I see a change in people.
It appears to wash away people’s worries, their stress and cleanses their spirits.
Along with the holiday break December and January bring, it is a perfect time to make new plans and prepare to face a new year head-on.
I am also buoyed by the rain as it means farmers across our beautiful land receive respite from the relentless burning sun.
Crops and vegetables start to grow, promising good harvests, full pantries and produce to sell.
Cattle can graze on newly sprouted vegetation and provide us with our world-class Namibian meat.
Rain means business for farmers, which means money is generated and farmers can repay loans.
The repayment of loans is essential as it allows new loans to be extended for the growth of existing farms, or other farmers can now access loans.
The rainy season is crucial for Namibia’s tourism, mining and other sectors.
NEW HOPE
As a nation that has lived through the scourge of drought too often, we tend to measure our joy and excitement when the first drops appear.
Hopefully, it will turn into a steady beat of raindrops well into February or even early March.
We hope and pray the rain will be plentiful and that it transforms the Land of the Brave into a symphony of greenery and growth.
Not only uplifting our spirits but symbolically washing away our troubles and cleansing our souls.
Within the Namibian context, the rainy season brings sunshine into our lives and businesses.
- • John Steytler is CEO of the Development Bank of Namibia. This article is written in his personal capacity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
