Namibia held a funeral for its founding president, Sam Nujoma, who died at 95. Thousands, including regional leaders, attended the service at Heroes Acre in Windhoek to commemorate his role in the country’s independence from apartheid. Current and former leaders reflected on Nujoma’s legacy of unity and reconciliation during the emotional farewell.
On Saturday morning, thousands of Namibians gathered to honor their founding president, Sam Nujoma, who passed away at the age of 95. The funeral service took place at the National Shrine, the Heroes Acre, located on the outskirts of Windhoek. Attendees included heads of state from neighboring southern African countries, all coming together to pay their respects to a leader who played a pivotal role in Namibia’s independence from apartheid South Africa.
President Nangolo Mbumba commemorated Nujoma’s contributions, referring to him as a giant in the struggle for freedom. Mbumba expressed sorrow over Nujoma’s passing but found comfort in the legacy he left behind: the invaluable gift of independence. The president remarked, “[He] has completed his mission with distinction, fulfilling his destiny and leaving behind the most precious gift of freedom and independence for the people of Namibia.”
Notable figures at the funeral included South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and Angolan President João Lourenco, as well as former leaders Thabo Mbeki of South Africa and Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique. Their attendance highlighted the regional significance of Nujoma’s leadership in the fight for liberation.
Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana, Nujoma’s niece and a former cabinet minister, reflected on his impact in unifying the nation. She stated, “Nujoma united the people of Namibia who were divided according to ethnic languages. During the war, our people were made to fight against each other, and at independence, he introduced a policy of national reconciliation to forgive one another as brothers and sisters.”
Public servant Chrispin Kapalu participated in the mourning ceremonies where he and others sang and danced in tribute to Nujoma’s legacy. Kapalu expressed the importance of recognizing Nujoma’s contributions to their nation’s history, stating, “Growing up we knew about Nujoma. Different interpretations, but after independence, as young people, we could see the reality of why our forefathers had to sacrifice their lives. “
The memorial service for Sam Nujoma marked a significant moment in Namibia’s history as citizens and leaders alike came together to honor the individual who was instrumental in achieving their independence. Nujoma’s legacy of reconciliation and unity remains pivotal, as highlighted by remarks from current and former leaders. His contributions to Namibia’s emergence as a nation are celebrated and will be remembered for generations to come.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
