Ndilimani Cultural Troupe Honors Founding President Nujoma

The Ndilimani Cultural Troupe pays tribute to the late Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president, who significantly influenced their music and unity. The band’s manager, Jessy Nombanza, recalls Nujoma’s support for cultural initiatives and the profound impact of his leadership. He emphasizes the need for unity among Namibians and reflects on the importance of Nujoma’s legacy as they strive for economic liberation.

The Ndilimani Cultural Troupe, recognized as Swapo’s revolutionary band, honors the legacy of Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president, deeply influential in shaping their music. Manager Jessy Nombanza expresses that the band is profoundly saddened by Nujoma’s passing, particularly for long-standing members who recall his impactful messages of hope for Namibia. Nombanza reminisces about recording two songs with Nujoma, underlining his significant role in their artistic journey.

Nujoma was a staunch advocate for culture and inspired Ndilimani to foster unity through music, drama, and dance. Although he rarely danced, he was known for singing freedom songs that uplifted spirits in Swapo camps. During their exile, he organized cultural evenings to strengthen community bonds, a practice that continued as part of Namibia’s celebration of his birthday on May 12 after independence.

Nombanza recounts his first close interaction with Nujoma in 1980 at the Cassica farm in Angola, where Nujoma addressed education concerns and engaged with young Swapo Pioneers. He describes a deep sense of loss following Nujoma’s death, feeling uncertain about moving forward without his guidance. The memory of Nujoma visiting their studio remains vivid, filled with stories of struggles and the importance of cultural heritage, which he emphasized with the analogy of a tree without roots.

Nombanza calls upon the Namibian people to honor Nujoma’s vision by setting aside political differences and promoting unity, a principle crucial during the struggle for independence. He extends condolences to Nujoma’s family and the Namibian nation on behalf of the Ndilimani Cultural Troupe and its supporters, committing to pursue economic liberation as envisioned by Nujoma. In his farewell, Nombanza passionately asserts, “The struggle continues and we will achieve economic liberation for our people as envisioned by comrade Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma. Farewell my commander. Farewell my president.”

Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma’s legacy as Namibia’s founding president profoundly influenced the Ndilimani Cultural Troupe and the nation at large. His dedication to culture, unity, and empowerment continues to resonate, inspiring both the band members and the broader community to pursue Nujoma’s vision of economic liberation. The reflections shared by Jessy Nombanza capture the deep respect and admiration for Nujoma, reminding all Namibians of the importance of unity in honoring their past as they move towards a shared future.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na