Mozambique has declared three days of national mourning for Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding President who recently passed away. President Daniel Chapo recognized Nujoma’s contributions to Namibia’s independence and peace in Southern Africa. Nujoma was a key figure in the liberation movement, leading Swapo and advocating for Namibia’s rights. His legacy resonates as he is remembered among Africa’s great leaders.
The government of Mozambique has announced a period of three days of national mourning in honor of Sam Nujoma, the founding President of Namibia, who passed away following a prolonged illness. This mourning period commenced on Wednesday as a tribute to Nujoma’s significant contributions to Namibia and the broader African continent.
President Daniel Chapo expressed his condolences to the Government of Namibia, emphasizing that Nujoma’s death marks a profound loss for Africa. In a message addressed to President Nangolo Mbumba, Chapo recognized Nujoma as a pivotal figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence and credited him for his vital role in fostering peace within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Nujoma co-founded the South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo) in 1960 and led Namibia to independence in 1990 after a long struggle against South African rule. Notably, he had previously rejected Germany’s offer of over €1 billion in reparations regarding the Herero and Nama genocide, calling it “terribly insignificant.”
Born on May 12, 1929, in a farming family, Nujoma’s early life involved livestock herding before moving to Walvis Bay at 17, where he encountered racial discrimination. His activism began as he became a trade unionist and pursued education, forging connections with fellow independence activists.
Following his exile in 1960, Nujoma led the armed struggle for independence, which claimed over 20,000 lives. As president, he opted not to establish a commission to investigate wartime atrocities committed during the conflict. After his presidency, he earned a master’s degree in Geology, motivated by the potential mineral wealth of Namibia’s mountains.
The loss of Sam Nujoma signifies the closing chapter of an era dominated by revolutionary leaders who shaped the continent’s history, such as Julius Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, and Robert Mugabe.
In conclusion, Mozambique’s three-day national mourning period honors the legacy of Sam Nujoma, a prominent figure in Namibia’s history and African independence. President Daniel Chapo’s message underscores the profound impact of Nujoma’s contributions to both Namibia and the southern African region. His life story reflects significant milestones, struggles for independence, and a commitment to his nation’s future, solidifying his status as a pivotal leader in Africa’s history.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
