Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding President, has died at 95 in Windhoek. President Nangolo Mbumba and other regional leaders paid tribute to his leadership during the liberation struggle. Nujoma’s contributions were pivotal in Namibia’s fight for independence from colonial rule, establishing a legacy that inspires resilience and unity across Southern Africa.
Namibia’s founding President, Sam Nujoma, has passed away at the age of 95, as confirmed by President Nangolo Mbumba in a statement. Nujoma died at 11:45 PM local time on Saturday, after being hospitalized in Windhoek for medical treatment. President Mbumba praised Nujoma’s commitment to the nation, remembering him as a leader who guided Namibia through its liberation struggle from colonial rule until its independence on March 21, 1990. The government will announce national mourning arrangements and burial plans.
Nujoma was one of the last prominent leaders of the liberation movements in Southern Africa, joining the ranks of other influential leaders such as Zambia’s Kenneth Kaunda and South Africa’s Nelson Mandela. President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed that Nujoma’s visionary leadership and dedication were foundational in establishing a free and united Namibia.
Tributes have poured in from across the region, with Kenyan President William Ruto acknowledging Nujoma as a courageous leader who devoted his life to the country’s liberation. Similarly, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema commemorated Nujoma as a transformative figure whose legacy would endure.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa remarked on the significance of Nujoma’s contribution, stating that Namibia mourns the loss of a leader intertwined with South Africa’s own history of liberation. Ramaphosa emphasized Nujoma’s role in Namibia’s fight against South African colonialism and apartheid, noting his dedication to advancing the relationship between their two nations.
Reporting indicates that Nujoma’s passing comes a year after former President Hage Geingob, who died at 82. Nujoma’s extensive service to his country and the culmination of his endeavors in fostering independence are deeply honored by his compatriots and regional leaders alike.
Sam Nujoma played a pivotal role in Namibia’s struggle for independence from colonial rule, leading the country to freedom in 1990 after years of conflict against German colonialism and apartheid South African occupation. His leadership was instrumental in uniting the Namibian people during critical times, and he became the first President of Namibia, a position he held until 2005. Nujoma is remembered not only for his national contributions but also for his influence on the broader Southern African liberation movements.
The passing of Sam Nujoma marks a significant moment in the history of Namibia, as the nation remembers a leader who dedicated his life to its freedom and unity. Leaders across the region have acknowledged his extraordinary contributions, ensuring that his legacy will persist. As Namibia enters a period of mourning, it reflects on Nujoma’s long-lasting impact on the country and its people.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
