Exploring the post-Independence experiences of the Namibian Children of the Liberation Struggle: A qualitative study

Abstract

The Independence of Namibia on 21 March 1990 signified the end of the struggle against colonialism from Germany and South Africa. A voluntary repatriation of approximately 40 000 - 50 000 exiled Namibian people, including children born and/or raised in exile, back to Namibia happened as from 1989. These children are referred to as the Children of the Liberation Struggle (CLS). The CLS demonstrations and demands for jobs, education opportunities and national documents from government have been making headlines in the media for the past few years. Due to their demands and their protests, many Namibians often label the CLS as deviant and unproductive. The perceived demanding behaviour of a group of CLS in Namibia prompts one to consider possible reasons for their behaviour. An understanding of what drives behaviour can assist in meaning-making of the behaviour. The purpose of this study was thus to explore the experiences that the CLS had since their return “home” and to determine an impact on behavior. A qualitative approach was employed where in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 employed CLS in the Khomas region from two generations of CLS born between 1972 and 1978 and between1979 and 1986. Interviews were transcribed and the data was categorised and analysed according to thematic analysis.  Excitement and disappointment with the homecoming experience, feeling unsafe during and after repatriation, being separated from biological parents and siblings, adjustment difficulties, lack of psychological support, seeking education opportunities and having to endure negative labelling are some of the post-Independence experiences that the CLS report. The study recommends psychological interventions in the form of therapeutic group sessions for employed and unemployed CLS as well as an awareness campaing amongst Namibians to understand what the CLS endured prior to as well as after Independence.