Namibia Honors Founding Father Sam Nujoma at State Funeral

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s independence leader, passed away at 95, leading to nationwide tributes culminating in a state funeral. Dignitaries, including African leaders and international guests, gathered to honor his contributions. Nujoma’s legacy as a statesman and first president of Namibia remains influential in promoting unity and stability within the nation.

On Saturday, a significant gathering of thousands of Namibians and dignitaries took place to commemorate the life of Sam Nujoma, the country’s independence leader. This event marked the culmination of nearly a month of tributes following his passing on February 9, at the age of 95. His casket, adorned with Namibia’s national colors, was transported via gun carriage to Heroes’ Acre, a memorial dedicated to the country’s liberation fighters, located near Windhoek.

Among the attendees were prominent African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Angola’s João Lourenço, and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. International dignitaries were also present, including Cuba’s parliamentary speaker Esteban Lazo Hernández. The entire funeral was broadcast live on state television, reflecting the importance of the occasion.

Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba expressed profound admiration for Nujoma, describing him as “the most distinguished son of the soil” and a “giant” in statesmanship. He highlighted Nujoma’s leadership role with the South West People’s Organisation (SWAPO) during Namibia’s fight for independence, asserting, “You were the ultimate statesman.”

Nujoma’s widow was dressed in black and chose not to address the attendees directly at the ceremony. However, her sentiments were conveyed in a speech that honored her late husband’s attributes of steadfastness, honesty, and discipline, asserting, “Even in his absence, my husband’s love and strength enveloped us.”

Born to a poor farming family, Nujoma began his career as a railway sweeper and embraced education, awakening his political consciousness. By 1960, he was elected leader of SWAPO and soon went into exile, leading the organization’s armed struggle against South African rule, which began six years later.

Nujoma became Namibia’s first president after independence in 1990 and served until 2005, stepping down as SWAPO leader two years after his presidency. His tenure is remembered for political stability and economic growth, alongside significant achievements in AIDS awareness and treatment, gaining him international recognition. Over the past month, many Namibians have honored his memory as his body was transported throughout the nation and lay in state prior to the funeral.

Sam Nujoma’s funeral represented a monumental tribute to the founding father of Namibia, reflecting the nation’s gratitude for his leadership and contributions to independence. His legacy of stability and political integrity continues to inspire many Namibians. As the country remembers Nujoma, it carries forward his ideals of unity, strength, and resilience in building the nation.

Original Source: newscentral.africa