Namibia’s founding president, Sam Nujoma, was laid to rest on Saturday at the Heroes Acre cemetery in Windhoek, in a ceremony attended by his widow, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous African leaders, both past and present. Nujoma, who passed away two weeks ago at the age of 95, is remembered as one of Africa’s foremost anti-colonial leaders, celebrated for his role in guiding Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa.
Nujoma’s funeral was marked by solemn tributes from political figures, family members, and citizens who viewed him as an iconic leader and a symbol of African liberation. His death marked the end of an era, as he was the last of a generation of revolutionary figures who led independence movements across the continent.
During the ceremony, Namibia’s current president, Nangolo Mbumba, reflected on Nujoma’s legacy, describing him as “a giant among leaders” and “a revolutionary icon.” Mbumba praised Nujoma for his unwavering dedication to the continent’s freedom, emphasizing his pivotal role in the fight against colonial oppression.
“As we lay him to rest on these hallowed grounds, where Namibia’s heroes and heroines rest, we honor a most distinguished son of the soil,” Mbumba stated, as mourners gathered from all corners of Namibia.
Nujoma, born in Etunda, Okahao, was raised herding cattle before becoming one of Africa’s most significant political figures. He led the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in its struggle for independence and was at the forefront of the Namibian liberation movement during the 1960s and 70s. His tireless efforts culminated in Namibia’s independence from South Africa on March 21, 1990.
Pendukeni Ithana, vice-chairperson of the Sam Nujoma Foundation, described him as “the epitome of the struggle for the liberation of an African person,” noting that his resistance against apartheid began in the 1950s, long before Namibia’s independence was realized.
Nujoma served as Namibia’s president from 1990 to 2005, overseeing the country’s transition from apartheid rule to a democratic society. Under his leadership, Namibia achieved significant political stability, economic growth, and national unity, earning him admiration from both domestic and international communities.
In recognition of his contributions to the nation, Namibia observed a 21-day period of mourning, with flags lowered to half-staff across the country. His body was honored with a nationwide farewell, with his remains transported across seven regions, including to his home village of Etunda.
The funeral itself was a grand, military affair. As Nujoma’s casket, draped in the Namibian flag, was lowered into the ground, a 21-gun salute was fired, and the Namibian Air Force conducted a flypast in his honor.
As Namibia bids farewell to its founding father, Sam Nujoma’s legacy as a visionary and a champion of African liberation will continue to inspire future generations, not just in Namibia, but across the African continent.
