The United States Embassy in Namibia recently celebrated the swearing-in of 30 Peace Corps Trainees who are set to embark on a two-year service as Economic Empowerment and Community Health HIV/AIDS Volunteers in various communities across Namibia. The ceremony, which took place on November 14th, was attended by Honorable Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Dr. Esther Utjiua Muinjangue, United States Ambassador to Namibia, Randy Berry, and United States Peace Corps Country Director, Dr. Elizabeth Anderson.
This 53rd group of Trainees to Namibia underwent 12 weeks of Pre-Service Training at the Peace Corps Training Center in Okahandja. The training focused on hands-on learning experiences, including the application of Participatory Analysis for Community Action (PACA) tools and developing effective partnerships with the host community. Trainees also received technical training on the health and economic sectors of Namibia, current HIV/AIDS interventions, and intercultural sessions to enhance their understanding of local cultures. Additionally, each Trainee learned one of the local languages, such as Afrikaans, Oshikwanyama, Oshindonga, Otjiherero, Rukwangali, or Silozi.
Peace Corps Volunteers have been serving in Namibia since 1990, with over 1,800 American Volunteers working in sectors such as education, health, and economic development. The Volunteers live in Namibian communities, learn local languages, and integrate into the culture to promote world peace and friendship. Their projects are locally prioritized and aim to build relationships, exchange knowledge, and make a lasting impact.
Ambassador Randy Berry emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Namibia partnership, which is based on shared values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights. He highlighted the Peace Corps as a significant part of the overall U.S. presence in Namibia and a key aspect of the friendship between the two countries.
During the global COVID-19 pandemic, all Peace Corps Volunteers were evacuated when Namibia went into lockdown. With the arrival of the new group of Volunteers, there are now 60 Volunteers serving throughout the country, including in regions like Lüderitz and Katima. This diverse group of Americans signifies a renewed commitment from the United States to work alongside Namibians in addressing economic empowerment and critical health care issues in both rural and urban areas.
The swearing-in ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for these Peace Corps Trainees as they embark on their service in communities across Namibia. Their dedication to making a difference and fostering relationships with local communities reflects the values of friendship and partnership between the United States and Namibia.
This article was distributed by APO Group on behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Namibia and highlights the important work being done by Peace Corps Volunteers in the country.
