Thousands of Namibians and foreign dignitaries gathered at Independence Stadium in Windhoek on Friday to pay their last respects to the country’s founding president Sam Nujoma.
The atmosphere was charged with emotion as members of the public waved Namibia’s national flag in a vibrant display of patriotism.
The memorial service commenced with a devotion and eulogy delivered by former Prime Minister Nahas Angula, followed by tributes from current President Nangolo Mbumba, president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, former president Hifikepunye Pohamba and opposition leader McHenry Venaani.
Nujoma’s body will lie in state overnight for public viewing before being laid to rest at Heroes Acre in Windhoek on Saturday morning.
Nujoma was born on 12 May 1929 in Ongandjera during South Africa’s colonial rule over what was then known as South West Africa.
Growing up amid systemic segregation and oppression, he became acutely aware of the injustices faced by indigenous Namibians who were denied basic rights and opportunities.
Nujoma’s political activism began in earnest during the 1950s when he joined labour movements and nationalist organisations.
In 1959, he co-founded the Ovamboland People’s Organisation, which later evolved into the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO).
This organisation aimed to challenge South African control over Namibia through both peaceful protests and armed resistance.
Recognizing that independence could not be achieved solely through nonviolent means, Nujoma led SWAPO into an armed liberation struggle beginning in 1966.
From exile, he became the face of Namibia’s fight for freedom – securing international support while leading military operations against occupying forces.
His diplomatic efforts garnered recognition from global institutions such as the United Nations and the Organisation of African Unity, ensuring that Namibia remained a focal point on the international agenda throughout its struggle for independence.
After years of conflict marked by increasing pressure on South Africa from both domestic resistance and international advocacy, a peace agreement was reached in 1988.
This paved the way for UN-supervised elections in 1989, resulting in SWAPO’s victory and Namibia achieving independence on 21 March 1990.
As Namibia’s first president, Nujoma faced significant challenges uniting a nation scarred by decades of colonial rule and conflict.
His leadership established foundational principles for democracy while prioritising education, healthcare, infrastructure development and land reform – all essential components for translating newfound freedom into tangible progress for citizens.
After serving three terms until voluntarily stepping down in 2005 – a move seen as exemplary within African leadership – his influence continues to resonate deeply across Namibia’s political landscape today.
Nujoma died on 8 February, aged 95, while receiving treatment at a hospital in Windhoek.
JN/APA