Remarks

Ambassador Dennise Mathieu’s Remarks
Peace Corps Swearing In Ceremony
January 9, 2008 – 10:00 a.m.
Okahandja

Good morning everyone and welcome to the 2009 swearing-in ceremony for the 28th group of Peace Corps volunteers to serve in Namibia!

This is my second time presiding over a swearing-in ceremony in Namibia, and I feel a tremendous sense of pride, both as an American citizen and as the American Ambassador.  As the Peace Corps director, Hannah Baldwin, noted, today’s volunteers -- all of you -- represent the very best that the American people have to offer to Namibia.  It’s indeed an honor to participate in today’s ceremony.

Since the first days of independence in 1990, the United States and the Government of Namibia have been working together.  And we’re proud, of what we’ve achieved during the last 19 years.  I’m especially proud of the contribution of the Peace Corps, the 1st United States government agency to formally begin work in the Republic of Namibia.

More than 900 Peace Corps volunteers have served here since 1990, working closely with their Namibian counterparts in the field of education -- teaching English, math, natural sciences and computer science.   As many of you know, Peace Corps Volunteers do make a difference.  Their contributions are tangible – such as higher pass rates at schools where volunteers teach - and improved operational capacity at ministries and organizations where volunteers work. 

Volunteers also have an intangible impact.  Last year at this time I could only talk about the experiences that many Namibians had described to me.  This year, however, I’m able to recount stories of my own -- visits to cities and villages where I’ve seen Peace Corps volunteers making a difference  – a Peace Corps teacher showing a student special attention or encouragement; Peace Corps volunteers helping orphans and vulnerable children learn gardening and life skills; Peace Corps Volunteers working with boys and girls clubs teaching participants how to protect themselves from the HIV/AIDS epidemic.  Programs like Camp Glow, the Diversity Tour and other activities for youth help to open up a world of possibilities for Namibian students.

I look forward to visiting you and learning about your projects during your 2 years of service in Namibia.  What’s also remarkable about the Peace Corps program is the mutual understanding that develops as a result of the interaction between Volunteers and Namibians.  Peace Corps Volunteers who serve here will leave with a deeper understanding of this society and the challenges it faces.  And Namibians whom you meet will gain a better appreciation of American culture and values.  Not only will you be ambassadors on the ground for the American people, but you’ll also become wonderful ambassadors for Namibia by sharing your experiences with family, friends and colleagues.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the Peace Corps operation in Namibia continues to be a vibrant and dynamic program.  Currently, we have more than 90 Peace Corps Volunteers in Namibia located in all 13 regions of the country, from Luderitz, to Katima.  

To group 28 – congratulations!  I know that getting here hasn’t been easy.  After successfully completing a rigorous selection process and a demanding 8-week training course, you should be proud of what you’ve accomplished.  I have no doubt that all of you will add a new chapter to the continuing story of the Peace Corps’ strong commitment to the Namibian people.

An exciting future lies ahead.  Namibia is a wonderful yet challenging country – the Namibians a gracious people.  The demands are high, but so are the rewards.  As you work through the sometimes difficult, yet interesting days to come, remember the positive impact you’re having on people’s lives.  Certainly, the Namibians you work with will never forget you. 

So, focus on the contribution you’re making, and, above all, remain open to the very special rewards that you’ll gain from working in this unique and very special place!

Good luck to all of you. 

Thank you.