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Message: [QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 31525, member: 636"] Ben Amathila, a former Cabinet minister, championed the idea of honoring Nelson Mandela with a statue at Walvis Bay during the town's 30th reintegration anniversary celebration. He fondly recalled Mandela's crucial support in Namibia's peaceful acquisition of Walvis Bay and the Penguin Islands back in 1994. Amathila highlighted the diplomatic finesse that secured the territory without military conflict. Mandela's leadership proved instrumental when he decisively declared Walvis Bay belonged to the Namibian people and swiftly signed the necessary documentation. The liberation came through strategic planning and patient negotiation rather than armed confrontation. The Pearl Celebrations followed a postponement from the previous year due to national mourning for former president Hage Geingob. The event carried the theme Keeping the Namibian economy alive yesterday, today and tomorrow. A gala dinner raised approximately N$ 130,000 through pledges and auctions to support celebration activities. Funds collected will contribute to monument projects honoring significant national figures. Planned commemorative statues will recognize Nathaniel Maxuilili, current president Nangolo Mbumba, and Gertrude Kandanga. These monuments aim to preserve and celebrate important contributions to Namibian history and national development. Amathila's passionate call for a Mandela statue underscores the enduring respect for diplomatic heroes who navigate complex political landscapes. His narrative emphasizes peaceful resolution and strategic diplomacy as powerful tools for national liberation and territorial integrity. [/QUOTE]

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