This year marks the 10th and 20th anniversaries of the American Corners in Ongwediva and Walvis Bay respectively.
These milestones underscore the enduring collaboration between the U.S. Embassy, the Ongwediva Town Council, and the Walvis Bay Municipality, celebrating decades of fostering learning, creativity, and community development.
The American Corner Walvis Bay was established in 2004, while the American Corner Ongwediva was established in 2014. Annually, both corners receive an investment of approximately 250,000 Namibian dollars from the U.S. government.
For 10 years, the American Corner Ongwediva has been a hub of educational and cultural activities within the Sam Nujoma Multi-Purpose Center. This Corner has significantly contributed to the community by providing access to technology, and educational programs, and fostering U.S.-Namibia connections.
The Sam Nujoma Multi-Purpose Center Coordinator, Loini Iyambo, who was pivotal in facilitating the agreement between the Ongwediva Town Council and the U.S. Embassy, highlighted that the embassy’s support has been crucial in creating a space that offers the youth various opportunities for education and development, greatly benefiting the community’s progress.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the American Corner Walvis Bay has served as a cornerstone of knowledge and a catalyst for community development since its inception in 2004. The Corner has expanded its influence beyond the main library to include libraries in the underserved communities of Kuisebmond and Narraville, offering specialized satellite services and innovative programming.
The anniversary celebration highlighted several key initiatives, including a flagship Youth Entrepreneurship training program and STEAM sessions that engage and educate local youth.
Trevino Forbes, Mayor of Walvis Bay, who delivered a speech at the celebration, noted that the American Corner Walvis Bay continues to be a beacon of partnership and progress, bringing together resources and programs that champion both education and community solidarity.
As we celebrate these significant milestones, both American Corners are poised for future growth, driven by a commitment to education, innovation, and community service. The ongoing support from the U.S. government and local stakeholders ensures that these valuable institutions will continue to serve as platforms for learning and engagement for years to come.
American Corners are partnerships between the U.S. Embassy and local institutions worldwide, designed to foster understanding and cooperation between the United States and host countries. The U.S. Embassy Namibia maintains three vibrant spaces: American Corners in Ongwediva and Walvis Bay, and an American Center in Windhoek. These venues are part of the American Spaces program, offering educational advising, workshops, technology classes, and cultural events.
American Spaces provides free, public programs in modern environments equipped with accessible technologies. They serve as platforms for interaction on U.S. foreign policy priorities such as media literacy, economic development, and American culture. These spaces facilitate public engagement, enabling the U.S. government to build ongoing relationships with local communities. By offering comprehensive information about the United States and promoting U.S. culture and values, these centers also enhance educational opportunities.
To learn more about our spaces and activities, visit: Https://na.usembassy.gov/education-culture/american-spaces/
Mayor of Walvis Bay, His Worship Trevino Forbes, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy Namibia, Tiffany Miller, and Manager: Community Development at the Municipality of Walvis Bay Piet van Niekerk.