Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father, was honored at a state funeral attended by thousands, including notable African leaders. He is remembered for leading the country to independence and serving as its first president. Nujoma’s widow praised his strength and dedication, while many Namibians paid their respects across the nation, highlighting his lasting legacy in politics and public health.
On Saturday, thousands gathered in Namibia to honor Sam Nujoma, the nation’s founding father and leader of its struggle for independence from apartheid South Africa. Nujoma, who passed away on February 9 at age 95, was celebrated in a state funeral that culminated nearly a month of tributes. His casket, draped in Namibia’s national flag, was transported to Heroes’ Acre, a site dedicated to liberation fighters, located near Windhoek.
The funeral saw the attendance of notable African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Angolan President João Lourenço, and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, along with international dignitaries such as Cuba’s parliamentary speaker, Esteban Lazo Hernández. Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba extolled Nujoma’s legacy, referring to him as “the most distinguished son of the soil” and a “giant” among statesmen.
In a heartfelt tribute, Nujoma’s widow, while not speaking during the ceremony, had previously expressed how her husband maintained his strength throughout their challenges. She described him as “steadfast, resolute, honest, and disciplined,” emphasizing his enduring love for his family despite the hardships they faced during his exile.
Nujoma, born into a poor farming family and the eldest of ten children, started his career as a railway sweeper, during which he began his political education. He became a prominent figure in resisting South African policies, leading SWAPO in 1960 before going into exile. Under his leadership, SWAPO initiated an armed struggle against apartheid six years later.
Post-independence in 1990, Nujoma served as Namibia’s first president until 2005 and later stepped down as SWAPO leader in 2007. His tenure is noted for stability and some economic growth, alongside a noteworthy approach to the AIDS epidemic, which garnered him international respect. This past month, many Namibians paid their respects to Nujoma, honoring his impactful life and contributions.
The state funeral for Sam Nujoma marks a significant moment in Namibian history, celebrating the life of a leader who played a crucial role in the nation’s struggle for independence. Nujoma’s legacy of political stability and economic progress left a lasting impact. His contributions continue to inspire national unity as the nation bids farewell to its founding father and reflects on his enduring influence.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
