Cassinga Day in Namibia

Cassinga Day, observed on May 4th annually, is a public holiday in Namibia that commemorates the Cassinga massacre of 1978. It is a day of remembrance for those who lost their lives during an airborne attack by the South African Defence Force on a camp at Cassinga in southern Angola, which housed Namibian refugees and SWAPO (South West African People's Organization) guerrilla fighters.

History

On May 4, 1978, South African forces attacked the camp at Cassinga, resulting in a substantial loss of life. The assault, known as Operation Reindeer, was part of South Africa's broader campaign to destabilize SWAPO during the Namibian War of Independence. The number of casualties has been a point of contention, but it is estimated that several hundred people were killed.

Traditions

Cassinga Day serves both as a day to honor those who died for independence and freedom and to reinforce national unity and patriotism among Namibians. Various activities mark this somber occasion:

• Memorial Services: There are typically nationwide remembrance services where people gather to pay their respects.
• Speeches and Ceremonies: Government officials and veterans often give speeches recounting the events and the significance of the struggle for independence.
• Moment of Silence: A moment of silence may be observed in memory of those who perished.
• Educational Events: Schools and educational institutions might organize events or lessons focusing on the history surrounding Cassinga Day.

What People Do

On Cassinga Day, many Namibians attend commemorative events or watch them on television if they are broadcasted. Some visit memorials dedicated to those who fell in the struggle for independence. It is also common for people to spend time with family members reflecting on their country's history.