Namibia’s Sam Nujoma laid to rest
WINDHOEK: IN a solemn and deeply emotional ceremony, Namibia yesterday laid to rest its Founding President and Father of the Nation, Dr Sam Nujoma, at the revered Heroes’ Acre in Windhoek.
The burial ceremony, marked by an outpouring of grief and gratitude, was led by President of Namibia Dr Nangolo Mbumba, who bore the weighty responsibility of Chief Mourner.
The ceremony brought together Namibians from all walks of life, along with foreign Heads of State, government officials and dignitaries from across Africa, all united to lay to rest a legendary leader honoured as a giant of African liberation and a symbol of Namibia’s hard-won freedom.
Dr Sam Nujoma, born on May 12, 1929, in Etunda Village, Ongadjera, Ovam- boland, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95.
His life’s work left an indelible mark not only on Namibia but also on the broader African continent.
Speaking after the state funeral on Friday Vice- President Dr Philip Mpango, delivered a heartfelt tribute, describing Dr Nujoma’s passing as a monumental loss to Namibia and Africa at large.
‘The death of Dr Sam Nujoma is a profound loss, not just for Namibia but for the entire continent. His legacy in uniting the people of Namibia and promoting African solidarity is a beacon for us all,” said Dr Mpango who represented President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He urged Namibian leaders and citizens to emulate his exemplary leadership for the benefit of future generations.
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Dr Mpango added that Tanzania and Namibia are brotherly nations that have closely collaborated on various matters through the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and other institutions.
Also representing Tanzania was Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Secretary General, Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi, who expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr Nujoma.
“The news of President Nujoma’s death deeply saddened us. When we received this news, we were truly shocked. He was the last remaining leader among the pioneers of Southern Africa’s liberation and one of the founders of the Frontline States. He was our remaining source of wisdom and a symbol of our liberation. We feel robbed. We feel lost,” Dr Nchimbi said.
On his part, Namibian President Dr Nangolo Mbumba described Dr Nujoma as a revolutionary icon whose life’s work gifted Namibia its freedom and independence.
He said his poignant words captured the essence of a leader whose actions trans- formed the nation. “Although our hearts remain laden with grief, we take solace that President Samuel, who will now rest among his fellow illustrious heroes and heroines, has completed his mission with distinction.
He fulfilled his destiny and left behind the most precious gift of freedom and independence for the people of Namibia,” said Dr Mbumba.
Dr Mbumba honored Dr Nujoma as the ultimate statesman and Commander in Chief expressing the nation’s pride in calling him a son of the Namibian soil.
He urged the nation to draw strength from Nujoma’s legacy of dedication and hard work, continuing to uphold his command of maintaining unity and im- proving the quality of life for all Namibians.
