During a memorial service for former Namibian president Hage Geingob on Saturday, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier faced calls to expedite talks on reparations for the colonial-era genocide of the Herero and Nama peoples.
While acknowledging the killings as genocide in 2021, Germany’s offer of €1.1 billion in development projects over 30 years falls short of formal reparations for many Namibians. Negotiations remain ongoing.
Steinmeier, whose role as head of state doesn’t directly involve setting compensation, expressed Germany’s commitment to improved ties.
He mentioned Geingob’s wish to sign a joint declaration acknowledging the genocide, but emphasized the need for reconciliation beyond simply closing the past.
“Reconciliation is about taking responsibility for our past and it is a commitment to a better future,” Steinmeier stated, hinting at a potential future apology to the Namibian people.
Steinmeier’s visit highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations.
While Germany acknowledges the genocide, the question of adequate reparations and addressing historical wounds remains unresolved.
Namibians await a solution that brings closure and justice to their ancestors.
