Windhoek: Vice President Lucia Witbooi emphasized the critical role indigenous midwives have played in providing maternal care long before the advent of modern healthcare in remote and rural areas. During her keynote speech, delivered on her behalf at the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples event in Katima Mulilo, Zambezi Region, Witbooi highlighted the importance of preserving the knowledge held by indigenous midwives, which forms a vital part of humanity's shared heritage.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Vice President Witbooi noted that indigenous midwives have supported women through pregnancy, childbirth, and post-delivery care by passing down ancestral knowledge. These midwives have served not only as birth attendants but also as trusted advisers, counsellors, and custodians of knowledge. Their support extended beyond medical assistance to include emotional, social, and cultural care, demonstrating that healthcare encompasses more than just medical facilities and technologies.

Witbooi emphasized that indigenous communities are custodians of a rich cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. She stated that these communities are valued partners whose experiences and perspectives contribute significantly to society. The vice president assured that the government remains committed to placing the protection and advancement of indigenous peoples at the forefront of its national development agenda.

Furthermore, Witbooi urged citizens and officials to ensure that efforts to preserve indigenous cultures as part of the national heritage are expanded. She emphasized empowering indigenous people to fully participate in decisions impacting their livelihoods and future generations. She called on stakeholders to collaborate in reaffirming a collective commitment to preserving, promoting, and advancing the rights, dignity, and aspirations of indigenous peoples, asserting their right to thrive.

Zambezi Governor Dorothy Kabula also addressed the gathering, highlighting the need for mentorship services for the most marginalized communities in the Zambezi. She pointed out that these services often fail to reach the communities promptly and stressed the importance of implementing advocacy strategies that reinforce sustainable workforce planning to ensure improved care for indigenous people.

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples was observed under the theme 'Honouring Indigenous Midwives, Safeguarding Life and Well-being.'