Keetmanshoop Municipal Council has named a prominent street in the Tseiblaagte suburb after one of the town’s luminaries, Reverend Andreas Biwa.
Speaking at the street naming ceremony, the town’s mayor, Macdonald Hanse, said the street naming speaks to Dr. Biwa’s legacy and is a symbol of dedication and leadership.
Hanse said that, by bestowing the honour, the town is celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of a man who has not only shaped the history of the community but also left an indelible mark on the spiritual and civic lives of many Namibians.
The mayor added that the life story of Dr. Biwa is one of humility, unwavering faith, and tireless service to both God and his community.
Reverend Dr. Biwa, a teacher by profession made history when he was elected as the first black Mayor in 1996 and again re-elected in 2000.
Dr. Biwa’s role involved dismantling the last remnants of apartheid in local governance.
“That is why if you are called to serve, you should be standing ready to serve and uplift.”
Hanse remarked that Dr. Biwa’s tenure as mayor marked an era of positive change and upliftment, ensuring that the voices of marginalised communities were heard and their needs addressed.
On the same occasion, Dr. Biwa expressed his profound gratitude for the honour bestowed on him and thanked the people of Keetmanshoop.
He said it was whilst serving as deputy mayor that he learnt the intricacies of the position of mayor for the day to come.
In recognition of his dedication to spiritual leadership, education, and societal transformation, Biwa was conferred with an honorary Doctorate of Theology by the R.R. Wright School of Religion in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Reverend. Dr. Biwa served as Regional Adult Literacy Officer for ||Kharas and Hardap regions before retirement.