Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president and a key figure in the anti-colonial struggle, passed away at 95 on February 8, 2025. Known as the “Father of the Nation,” he led Namibia’s liberation through SWAPO, serving as president from 1990 to 2005. His contributions to education, healthcare, and infrastructure were significant, earning him international recognition, including the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize.
Namibia’s first president, Sam Nujoma, was last seen publicly at President Hage Geingob’s funeral in February 2024. After being hospitalized in July, he passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95. Following his death, the Namibian government declared a national mourning period, beginning on February 9. His body was memorialized in various regions before a ceremony at Independence Stadium on February 28 and his burial at Heroes’ Acre on March 1.
President Nangolo Mbumba described Nujoma as “a towering figure among leaders,” recognizing his pivotal role in granting Namibia “the priceless gift of freedom.” Nujoma’s death marked the end of an era, as he was one of the last significant figures of Africa’s anti-colonial movement, standing alongside icons like Nelson Mandela and Julius Nyerere.
Revered as the “Father of the Nation,” Nujoma connected deeply with the people, often seen in a tracksuit rather than in formal attire. His leadership spanned over four decades, from advocating against South Africa’s apartheid to driving Namibia’s independence and development.
Born on May 12, 1929, in Ongandjera, Nujoma began his career with South African Railways. His political activism began early, co-founding the Ovamboland People’s Organisation in 1959, and later evolving it into the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which led Namibia’s liberation struggle.
As Nujoma faced years in exile, he effectively rallied international support for Namibia’s independence. His diplomatic efforts garnered global recognition, leading to successful alliances that aided the country’s liberation.
Following Namibia’s first democratic elections in 1990, Nujoma served as the nation’s inaugural president until 2005. He focused on national unity and socio-economic development, remaining a respected senior statesman even after his presidency.
Nujoma championed education, healthcare, and infrastructure. His autobiography, “Where Others Wavered,” highlights his contributions. He received several prestigious awards, including the Lenin Peace Prize and the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize.
The United Nations held a commemorative event on February 21 to honor Nujoma. India and Namibia share a historic relationship, with India supporting Namibia’s independence and providing military training and diplomatic backing to SWAPO during its struggle.
In 1990, India honored Nujoma with the Indira Gandhi Prize and he visited India in 2003, further strengthening bilateral ties with the leadership of the time. I had the distinct honor of meeting President Nujoma on multiple occasions, where he openly discussed India’s role in Namibia’s journey to independence and expressed great admiration for India’s democratic model. His warm hospitality remains a treasured memory for me.
Comrade Nujoma leaves behind a significant legacy as a dedicated and humble leader who truly embodied the spirit of his nation. The depth of his contribution to freedom and development in Namibia will be remembered for generations to come.
Sam Nujoma’s life story exemplifies dedication to the fight for freedom and development in Namibia. His passing not only signifies the loss of a beloved leader but also the end of an influential figure in Africa’s anti-colonial struggles. Nujoma’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, highlighting the impact of humble yet courageous leadership in the pursuit of independence and national development.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
