Dalene Kooper
KEETMANSHOOP – A Lüderitz resident, Ndeshipanda Akwenye, has proposed that the town honour anti-apartheid activist Anton Lubowski by naming a street after him and renaming Lüderitz Airport in his memory.
Speaking to the New Era, Akwenye said the idea is rooted in stories passed down by elders who witnessed Lubowski’s contribution to Namibia’s liberation struggle.
“We, as residents of Lüderitz, have heard great stories from our elders about the work Anton Lubowski was doing,” he said.
According to Akwenye, there is growing interest within the community to formally recognise Lubowski’s legacy. He believes such a tribute would embody the spirit of ubuntu, a shared sense of humanity and unity among Namibians.
“If understood well, this honour would reflect the spirit of ubuntu in our country,” he added.
Akwenye emphasised that Lubowski’s role in the struggle remains particularly significant given that he was a white Namibian who fought for blacks.
“He was a white Namibian who stood up and fought for black Namibians. He inspired many people, and they looked up to him. At the time, it was rare for white individuals to take such a stand,” he said.
He further noted that many elderly residents of Lüderitz still recall Lubowski personally and speak fondly of him.
“He was born in Lüderitz, and the elderly know him. They would like to honour him in a meaningful way,” Akwenye explained.
The proposal has also received support from Lubowski’s family. Akwenye confirmed that he has been in contact with the activist’s relatives, who have endorsed the idea.
“I am supported by his wife and their son. They have given their blessings for this idea to move forward. I hope his wife knows that Namibians truly appreciate the sacrifice her husband made,” he said.
Beyond the tribute, Akwenye said he is working on a campaign which seeks to celebrate Lüderitz’s history while promoting unity.
“We are working on a campaign to reignite the spirit of ubuntu among Namibians. We call ourselves the ‘Buchters’, and our aim is to promote love at a time when there is too much hate in the world right now,” he said.
The mayor of Lüderitz, Brigitte Fredericks, said that she is aware of the proposal and that the motion still needs to be tabled by the council.
“At this stage, it is only a proposal by a resident,” Fredericks said.