Windhoek|Khomas Region
It is a great honour to join you this evening for the official opening of the Art for Cuba Exhibition. This remarkable initiative brings together the creativity, compassion, and solidarity of Namibian artists in support of the people of the Republic of Cuba.
This exhibition demonstrates the power of art to unite people across borders, preserve friendships between nations and translate compassion into meaningful humanitarian action. Art is not merely a reflection of our experiences and identities; it is also a powerful instrument for social responsibility, international cooperation and the promotion of human dignity.
At the outset, allow me to express my sincere appreciation to BELLHAUS Atelier & Galerie, the National Organising Committee, the participating Namibian artists and everyone who contributed to making this initiative possible. Your vision and dedication have created a platform through which Namibia’s artistic community can express solidarity with a nation that has stood alongside our people during some of the most defining moments in our history.
Director of Ceremonies,
The significance of this exhibition becomes even greater when we reflect on the longstanding friendship between Namibia and Cuba. Our two nations share a relationship founded on solidarity, mutual respect and a common commitment to freedom, human dignity and the right of peoples to determine their own future.
During Namibia’s liberation struggle, Cuba stood alongside our people in the quest for independence. This support was more than a diplomatic gesture; it reflected a commitment to justice, equality and international solidarity.
Following Namibia’s independence, our relationship continued to grow through cooperation in education, healthcare and human resource development. Cuban doctors served our communities, Cuban teachers contributed to our education system, and generations of young Namibians received education and training in Cuba. These contributions remain an important part of our national story and a lasting reminder of the value of international friendship and cooperation.
Today, as the people of Cuba face significant humanitarian and energy challenges, this exhibition offers Namibia an opportunity to reciprocate that friendship through practical action. It reminds us that genuine solidarity must endure beyond the circumstances in which it was first established, finding expression in our willingness to stand together during difficult times.
Director of Ceremonies,
I am informed that this exhibition aims to raise about One Hundred Thousand Namibian Dollars for medical supplies and solar kits for health centres in Cuba. I therefore encourage everyone present, as well as members of the private sector, art collectors and development partners, to support this worthy initiative by purchasing artworks and contributing generously.
Let us work together to achieve this mark, and if possible, exceed this target. Every contribution will help turn the creativity and generosity of Namibian artists into tangible support for the Cuban People.
As we do so, let us remember that this initiative is about more than fundraising. It is an expression of gratitude, a reaffirmation of our shared values and a practical demonstration that friendship between nations carries both a historical legacy and a continuing responsibility.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Art for Cuba Exhibition represents the best of what our shared humanity can achieve when creativity is guided by compassion. It brings together art, history and humanitarian action in a way that honours the friendship between our two nations while providing meaningful assistance to the people of Cuba.
To our friends in Cuba, Namibia’s message is clear: we remember your support during our liberation struggle and in the years that followed; we appreciate the contributions you have made to our development, and we stand in solidarity with you during these challenging times.
May this exhibition inspire greater generosity, strengthen our historic bonds and remind us that true friendship is measured not only by the support we receive in times of need, but also by our willingness to extend that same support to others.
I wish the Art for Cuba Exhibition every success in achieving its fundraising objective and in further strengthening the enduring friendship between the Republic of Namibia and the Republic of Cuba.
With these remarks, it is my distinct honour and privilege to declare the Art for Cuba Exhibition officially open.
I thank you.