Our Journey

From Resistance
to Governance

The history of SWAPO is the history of Namibia. Walk through the defining moments that shaped our nation.

1959
The Old Location Uprising

The Old Location Uprising

On December 10, apartheid forces opened fire on peaceful protesters refusing forceful removal to Katutura. This event ignited the flame of resistance.

1960
Formation of SWAPO

Formation of SWAPO

On April 19, the Ovamboland People's Organization (OPO) was reconstituted as SWAPO to unite all Namibians in the fight for national independence.

1966
Omugulugwombashe

Omugulugwombashe

August 26 marks the beginning of the Armed Struggle. The first clash between PLAN fighters and South African forces took place, signaling that diplomacy alone was not enough.

1978
Cassinga Massacre

Cassinga Massacre

May 4. A somber day in our history where hundreds of Namibian refugees were brutally attacked by the SADF in Angola. We remember them always.

1989
Resolution 435 & Elections

Resolution 435 & Elections

After decades of war, the UN oversaw the first democratic elections. SWAPO won a decisive victory with 57% of the vote.

1990
Independence Day

Independence Day

March 21. The Namibian flag was hoisted for the first time. Cde. Sam Nujoma was sworn in as the Founding President of the Republic.

1994
Return of Walvis Bay

Return of Walvis Bay

Namibia's territorial integrity was finally completed with the reintegration of Walvis Bay and the offshore islands.

2005
First Peaceful Transition

First Peaceful Transition

Founding President Sam Nujoma handed over power to Cde. Hifikepunye Pohamba, cementing Namibia's reputation as a beacon of democracy.

2015
The Geingob Era

The Geingob Era

Cde. Hage Geingob took office, launching the Harambee Prosperity Plan to accelerate development and social welfare.

2025
First Female President

First Female President

A historic milestone. Cde. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is inaugurated, ushering in a new era of inclusive leadership and integrity.

2030
Vision 2030

Vision 2030

Our destination. A prosperous, industrialized Namibia, developed by her own human resources.

The Journey Continues...