Namibia Bids Farewell to Founding President Sam Nujoma

Namibians gathered to pay tribute to founding President Sam Nujoma, who died at 95. The funeral was attended by regional leaders, highlighting his role in leading Namibia to independence thirty-five years ago. Current leaders and citizens honored his legacy of unity and reconciliation during a tumultuous time in the nation’s history.

On a solemn Saturday, thousands of Namibians gathered on the outskirts of Windhoek to honor the late Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president who passed away the previous month at the age of 95. Notable leaders from southern African nations, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, joined the local mourners at the National Shrine, Heroes Acre, to pay their respects.

Beginning as early as 6 AM, citizens journeyed by foot and vehicle to the site, reflecting on Nujoma’s legacy of leading Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa thirty-five years prior. Following his passing in a Windhoek hospital on February 8th after three weeks of hospitalization, he was remembered for his crucial role in the nation’s fight for freedom.

Namibia’s current president, Nangolo Mbumba, paid tribute to Nujoma, describing him as a steadfast leader in the nation’s struggle for autonomy. He expressed, “Although our hearts are laden with grief, we take solace that President Sam Nujoma will now rest amongst his fellow illustrious heroes and heroines.”

Nujoma co-founded the South West Africa People’s Organization and served as the nation’s first president for three terms. His niece, Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana, noted his unifying influence among different ethnic groups during a time of strife, stating, “Nujoma united the people of Namibia who were divided according to the ethnic languages.”

Public servant Chrispin Kapalu, amidst the heat, joined others in singing and dancing to revolutionary songs honoring Nujoma’s memory. He remarked, “Growing up we knew about Nujoma, different interpretations but after independence as young people then we could see the reality why our forefathers have to sacrifice their lives.”

The funeral of Sam Nujoma underscores the profound impact he had on Namibia’s journey to independence. Attended by thousands of Namibians and government leaders from across the region, the ceremony reflected national unity and respect for a leader who fought for freedom. His legacy as a unifier and a visionary remains significant to the identity and history of Namibia.

Original Source: www.voanews.com