Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president, was laid to rest with military honors in a state funeral attended by African dignitaries following his death at 95. Known for leading the nation’s struggle for independence as head of SWAPO, he served as president from 1990 to 2005 and is celebrated for his contributions to national unity and stability.
On March 1, 2024, Namibia’s founding president, Sam Nujoma, was honored with a military funeral attended by dignitaries and mourners from across Africa, following his passing at the age of 95 on February 8. The service was held at Heroes’ Acre near Windhoek, where his coffin was interred, covered by the Namibian national flag. This monument celebrates the sacrifices of those who fought for the nation’s independence, having been established with North Korean support.
President Nangolo Mbumba delivered a moving eulogy reflecting on Nujoma’s remarkable influence, stating, “We fought under your command, won the liberation struggle, and forever removed apartheid colonialism from the face of Namibia.” The ceremony saw participation from prominent figures such as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, emphasizing Nujoma’s status as a respected leader throughout the continent.
Sam Nujoma was born in 1929 and rose from humble beginnings as a cattle herder to become a crucial leader in Namibia’s anti-colonialist movement. As the head of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), he was instrumental in achieving independence, ultimately culminating in Namibia’s liberation on March 21, 1990. He then served as president from 1990 until 2005, guiding the nation during its formative years.
In the wake of his death, the Namibian government declared a national mourning period, enabling citizens to pay their respects as Nujoma’s remains were transported throughout the country. On February 28, a memorial service took place at Independence Stadium, drawing thousands who came to celebrate his legacy and contributions to the nation as a leader.
Nujoma’s tenure as president is characterized by efforts to foster national reconciliation and stability, which encouraged Namibia’s white community to remain involved in the country’s economic activities post-independence. Following his retirement in 2005, he continued to lead SWAPO until 2007, marking nearly five decades at the forefront of the party and the nation.
Nujoma’s elaborate funeral arrangements included a nationwide tour where the military transported his remains to various regional capitals, culminating in his interment on March 1. This state funeral is noted as Namibia’s second within a year, following the burial of President Hage Geingob, who died in office on February 4, 2024.
Sam Nujoma’s legacy as Namibia’s founding president was commemorated through a state funeral, attended by significant leaders and dignitaries. His vital contributions to the country’s independence and subsequent stability are honored by the Namibian people, who recognized his efforts to promote national reconciliation and development. As the nation mourns, Nujoma’s impactful leadership will be remembered for generations to come.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
