Prof Job Amupanda Criticise The Presidency Over World Bee Day Message on 20 May
By TUW
President of AR, Prof Job Amupanda has criticised the Namibian Presidency’s World Bee Day message issued on 20 May, arguing that government priorities were misplaced by focusing on what he described as “European nonsense” instead of key national historical events linked to the date.
In a post shared on social media, Amupanda questioned the decision to mark World Bee Day, which highlights the importance of bees and pollinators in ecosystems, agriculture, and food security.
He argued that 20 May carries significant historical importance in Namibia, pointing to the birthday of Namibia’s first Vice President Nickey Iyambo, the 1978 recognition of Hendrik Witbooi as a traditional leader while in detention, and a 1988 World Council of Churches resolution calling for an end to colonialism and apartheid in Namibia.
Amupanda further questioned why such international observances were prioritised over what he described as key national historical moments, adding that political messaging is increasingly disconnected from the country’s historical identity.
The Presidency’s World Bee Day statement focused on the role of bees in supporting biodiversity, agriculture, and food security, warning that declining pollinator populations pose risks to ecosystems and livelihoods.
The debate has since sparked discussion on social media about how government communication balances international awareness days with Namibia’s own historical commemorations.
