On Saturday, Namibians honored the late Sam Nujoma, the founding father who led the country to independence, during a state funeral attended by dignitaries from across Africa and the world. President Nangolo Mbumba praised Nujoma’s legacy, while his widow described his enduring love and strength. Nujoma’s political career, marked by stability and international acclaim, is celebrated as a vital chapter in Namibia’s history.
On Saturday, thousands of Namibians and notable dignitaries gathered to commemorate the life of Sam Nujoma, the nation’s founding father and leader of its independence movement. His passing on February 9 at the age of 95 marked the culmination of nearly a month of tributes, culminating in a state funeral. Nujoma’s casket, adorned with the Namibian flag, was transported to Heroes’ Acre, a memorial dedicated to the country’s liberation fighters, located just outside Windhoek.
The funeral was attended by several African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Angolan President João Lourenço, and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, alongside international representatives such as Esteban Lazo Hernández from Cuba. The solemn ceremony was broadcast live on state television as Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba led the tributes, praising Nujoma as “the most distinguished son of the soil.”
In his tribute, President Mbumba recognized Nujoma as a “giant” among statesmen and a pivotal figure in the South West People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which led Namibia’s struggle for independence. He remarked, “You were the ultimate statesman,” and expressed hope that Nujoma’s legacy would continue to inspire collective unity within the nation.
Nujoma’s widow, present but not addressing the audience directly, had her sentiments shared through a previously recorded speech. She characterized her late husband as “steadfast, resolute, honest, and disciplined,” reflecting on the challenges the family endured during his exile. She noted, “Yet even in his absence, my husband’s love and strength enveloped us.”
Born to a poor farming family and the eldest of ten, Nujoma’s early experiences shaped his political awareness. He began working as a railway sweeper in 1949, pursuing education at night. By the late 1950s, he emerged as a leader amongst black workers opposing governmental displacement policies, leading to his election as SWAPO leader in 1960 and subsequent exile.
In 1966, SWAPO initiated an armed struggle against South African rule in response to the government’s non-compliance with a United Nations mandate. Following Namibia’s independence in 1990, Nujoma became the nation’s first president until 2005, resigning from his SWAPO leadership shortly thereafter. His presidential tenure is noted for political stability and moderate economic growth, alongside global recognition for his AIDS prevention efforts.
In the weeks leading to his funeral, countless Namibians paid their respects as Nujoma’s body was transported throughout the country, culminating in a lying in state on Friday, honoring his enduring influence on Namibia’s identity and development.
The funeral services for Sam Nujoma showcased the profound respect and admiration he garnered as a leader who forged Namibia’s path to independence and democracy. Leaders from across Africa and beyond recognized his contributions to the nation. His commitment to unity, discipline, and political stability remains a significant part of his enduring legacy, as does the love and strength he imparted to his family.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
