Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father and independence leader, passed away at the age of 95. His state funeral attracted thousands, including prominent African and international dignitaries. President Mbumba celebrated his legacy as a distinguished statesman and recognized his crucial role as head of SWAPO. Nujoma’s impact on Namibia’s development and his fight against AIDS were also acknowledged.
On Saturday, thousands gathered to commemorate Namibia’s independence leader, Sam Nujoma, who passed away on February 9 at the age of 95. The state funeral marked the conclusion of nearly a month of tributes. Nujoma was a guerrilla commander pivotal in leading Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa. His coffin, adorned with the Namibian flag, was transported on a gun carriage to Heroes’ Acre, a memorial site dedicated to the country’s liberation fighters, situated near Windhoek.
The funeral was attended by numerous African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Angola’s João Lourenço, and Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa, as well as international dignitaries. The event was broadcasted live on state television. Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba led the tributes, honoring Nujoma as “the most distinguished son of the soil” and acknowledging his significant contribution as head of the South West People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which championed Namibia’s independence.
President Mbumba stated, “You were the ultimate statesman. May your legacy become a source of strength as we continue to uphold your command of maintaining unity of purpose.” Nujoma’s widow, mourning in black, did not speak during the ceremony. However, a message read on her behalf praised her late husband’s steadfastness and character, highlighting the sacrifices their family endured during his years in exile.
Sam Nujoma was born into a poor Ovambo family and was the eldest of ten children. His political awareness ignited while he worked as a railway sweeper, where he attended night classes. By the late 1950s, Nujoma was already involved in political resistance against unfair relocation policies enforced upon black workers in Windhoek. He led SWAPO from 1960, going into exile and later initiating an armed struggle against South African control in 1966.
Upon Namibia’s independence in 1990, Nujoma became the first president, serving until 2005, and retiring from his SWAPO leadership two years later. During his presidency, he facilitated a period of political stability and notable economic progress. In addition, his efforts in combating AIDS garnered him international acclaim. Over the past month, his remains were honored across Namibia, culminating in a lying in state on Friday, where many paid their final respects.
The state funeral for Sam Nujoma highlighted his monumental contributions to Namibia’s independence and the importance of his legacy. As the first president of Namibia, he established political stability and contributed to the nation’s growth. The attendance of leaders from various nations underscored the respect he garnered internationally. His life and achievements will continue to inspire future generations in Namibia and beyond.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
