INTERVIEW: Omar van Reenen Reflects on Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize

In a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQI+ rights in Namibia, Omar van Reenen has been awarded the prestigious Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize. This honor recognizes young leaders worldwide for their dedication to safeguarding democracy and human rights. In an exclusive interview, van Reenen shared his thoughts on receiving this award, its significance for the LGBTQI+ community, and his plans moving forward.

Van Reenen expressed his gratitude for being nominated by his colleagues and friends in Namibia. He emphasized that winning the award is not just a personal victory but a collective achievement for the LGBTQI+ movement in Namibia. “Yes, I might be the first LGBTQ activist to win the award, but I’m definitely not the last,” he stated. “What this award signifies is that our fight for equality and justice in Namibia is worth it.”

He articulated the ongoing struggle for an equitable society, highlighting that the promise of a “born free” Namibia extends beyond independence and rests upon each generation to uphold it. “The litmus test of any country’s strength of democracy is how it treats its most vulnerable and marginalized people,” van Reenen noted, pointing out that LGBTQI+ individuals are currently among the most vulnerable in Namibia.

Van Reenen sees this recognition as a beacon of hope for young queer individuals in Namibia and across Africa, stating, “They know that they are deserving of every chance and opportunity in this Namibia to pursue and achieve their dreams.” He intends to use the monetary prize that comes with the award to reinvest in the community, empowering activists and organizations that work tirelessly for LGBTQI+ rights.

Despite the significant strides made, van Reenen acknowledged the challenges that remain, including the threat of anti-LGBTQ legislation. He affirmed, “If that gets signed into law, we’ll take it to court,” reflecting a commitment to strategic litigation and advocacy for equal rights.

Looking ahead, van Reenen aims to strengthen the Equal Namibia organization as a youth voice for queer persons, empowering them to run for office and advocate for their rights. “What a great day to be Namibian. What a great day to be a queer person in this country,” he proclaimed, encouraging all Namibians to participate in the upcoming elections on November 27, 2024. “Head to the polls to save our democracy from state-sanctioned homophobia.”

As van Reenen embarks on this new chapter as an award-winning advocate, his passion for justice and equality continues to inspire not only the LGBTQI+ community in Namibia but also the broader movement for human rights across Africa.