Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father, died at 95, having led the nation to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. He was hospitalized for weeks before his passing, which was mourned by President Nangolo Mbumba and others. Nujoma’s life was marked by significant political activism, ultimately becoming the first president of Namibia and presiding over a period of growth despite facing criticism in his later years.
Sam Nujoma, recognized as Namibia’s founding father and revered revolutionary leader, passed away at the age of 95 on Saturday, as confirmed by the presidency. Nujoma had been hospitalized for three weeks, battling a serious illness that proved insurmountable. President Nangolo Mbumba expressed deep sorrow regarding Nujoma’s death, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation’s independence and the substantial impact he had on the lives of Namibians throughout his lifetime.
Born into a poor farming family from the Ovambo tribe, Nujoma was the eldest of ten children. In 1949, he began working as a railway sweeper while attending night classes, where he encountered Herero tribal chief Hosea Kutako. Under Kutako’s mentorship, Nujoma became involved in political activism aimed at resisting the oppressive apartheid regime in Namibia, eventually leading to his exile in 1960.
Elected president of the South West Peoples’ Organisation (SWAPO) in 1960, Nujoma tirelessly advocated for international support in the fight against apartheid. SWAPO initiated an armed struggle in 1966 after South Africa disregarded a UN directive to relinquish its mandate over Namibia, which had previously been a German colony. Namibia achieved independence in 1990, with Nujoma becoming the nation’s first democratically elected president.
Throughout his three terms in office, Nujoma presided over a period of economic growth and political stability. While he received praise for his AIDS policies, he faced criticism for not rehabilitating certain SWAPO members imprisoned in Angola and for his controversial views on homosexuality. In 2005, his chosen successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba, assumed the presidency, although Nujoma remained influential in political matters for years thereafter.
President Mbumba remarked that Nujoma inspired many to embrace their heritage and asserted control over their land. President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah lauded Nujoma’s visionary guidance, expressing the importance of preserving his legacy through continued resilience and dedication to the nation’s ideals. As he prepares to take office next month, she called upon all Namibians to honor Nujoma’s contributions to the fight for liberation and nation-building.
In summary, Sam Nujoma’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Namibia’s history. His leadership was instrumental in the country’s struggle for independence and subsequent development. As tributes pour in from current leaders, it is evident that Nujoma’s legacy will continue to influence Namibia’s future and inspire generations to uphold the values he championed.
Original Source: www.france24.com
