Peace Corps Voluteer Group 26 getting sworn in on 5 January, 2007

Ambassar Barr's speech at the Peace Corps Swearing In Ceremony

January 5, 2007 – 10:00 a.m.
Okahandja

"Good morning everyone and welcome to the 2007 swearing-in ceremony for the twenty-sixth group of Peace Corps volunteers to serve in Namibia!

This is the third time that I have had the privilege of presiding over the swearing in ceremony and as I have at each previous occasion, I feel a tremendous sense of pride, both as an Ambassador and as an American. 

As Mr. Millington noted, these volunteers represent, the very best that the American people have to offer.  To have the opportunity to play even a small part in the initiation of their service to Namibia and the Namibian people is a unique and honor that I will always cherish.

Since the first days of Namibian independence, the United States and the Government of Namibia have been working together. Our governments and people share the same commitment to liberty, democracy, good governance and respect for human rights. 
We are and should be proud of what we have achieved during the last sixteen years. 

Speaking as the American Ambassador, I am especially proud of the contribution of the United States Peace Corps.  More than 800 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Namibia since 1990, working closely with their Namibian counterparts in education, disaster relief, community development and small business development.

Since 2004, the Peace Corps has also been part of the U.S. government’s combined effort to support Namibia in the struggle against HIV/AID.  The U.S. is the single largest contributor in this struggle and our Peace Corps volunteers play a major and important role in this effort.

Since their arrival in Namibia, Peace Corps volunteers have made a difference.  Their contributions are often tangible and can be seen in such things as higher pass rates at schools where volunteers are teaching or in the improved operational capacity of the faith-based and community-based organizations when volunteers are involved.

However, volunteers also have an intangible impact.  Many times I have talked with Namibians who fondly recount their memories of a Peace Corps teacher who showed them special attention or encouragement.  More recently, I have received similar messages from members of girls clubs and HIV/AIDS clubs who say that Peace Corps Volunteers have helped them to stay healthy despite the HIV epidemic.

The interaction between Volunteers and Namibians is not a one way street.  Peace Corps Volunteers who served in Namibia leave with a deeper understanding of this society and the challenges it faces.  Volunteers who return to the U.S. after their assignments make wonderful Ambassadors for Namibia when they share their experiences with family, friends and colleagues.

The Peace Corps operation in Namibia continues to be a vibrant and dynamic program.  Currently, we have almost 130 Peace Corps volunteers serving in every region of Namibia.   I have no doubt that this group of new Volunteers will in their own way add a new chapter in the continuing story of the Peace Corps strong commitment to Namibia and the Namibian people.

To group 26 – congratulations!  I know that getting here has not been easy.  After successfully completing a rigorous selection process and a demanding eight-week training course, you should be proud of what you have accomplished. 

An exciting future lies ahead!  Namibia is a wonderful yet challenging country, the Namibians a welcoming and gracious people.  The demands are high, but so are the rewards. 

As you work through the difficult yet interesting days to come, remember the impact you are having on people’s lives.  Whether you are working on HIV/AIDS or in education, you will have a positive impact, the Namibians you will working with will never forget you. 

So, don’t get discouraged.  Focus on the contribution you are making, and above all, remain open to the very special rewards that you will gain from working in this unique and very special place!

Good luck to you all."