Niël Terblanché
Former President of Namibia, Hifikepunye Pohamba, launched Footprints of Hifikepunye Pohamba, his autobiography, during a ceremony held on Monday. The autobiography is a contribution to the documentation of Namibia’s liberation history. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Vice President Nangolo Mbumba.
The event, attended by numerous dignitaries, including President Nangolo Mbumba, is a contribution to the documentation of Namibia’s liberation history and the life of one of its most influential figures.
Pohamba expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reflect on his life journey, which spans the struggle for independence, national development, and his time as the second president of Namibia.
“Giving an account of one’s life journey is a complex undertaking that often invokes a mixed brew of emotions,” Pohamba said while also describing the writing process as both challenging and therapeutic.
Pohamba emphasised the importance of documenting one’s own story, noting that his desire to contribute to the discourse on Namibia’s struggle for nationhood remained undiminished.
“Yes, what appeared to be mission impossible at first when the project was conceived is today being realised,” Pohamba said.
He also expressed his gratitude to Professor Ellen Namhila, the author, and the many individuals who supported him in this endeavour.
He also acknowledged the role that such autobiographies play in preserving the authenticity and credibility of historical accounts.
“One is at liberty to narrate one’s story in one’s own words. This in itself diminishes tempering. It dilutes the critiques and controversies that often emerge once such publications are finalised,” he added.
Pohamba stressed the value of such works in unearthing information that may not be readily available in the public domain.
The former president called upon future generations to continue documenting their stories, especially with the ease with which modern technology allows people to record their experiences.
“There is no credible excuse for anyone not to maximise the vast opportunities at our disposal! Let us not take the treasure troves of our experiences to our final resting place – a sacred place rich in unfulfilled intentions,” Pohamba said.
Former parliamentarian, Ben Amathila, recounted their shared experiences during the country’s liberation struggle.
Amathila praised the autobiography as a significant contribution to African historiography, highlighting the authenticity of Pohamba’s narrative.
“Hilikepunye Pohamba tells us this story as he experienced it and even more as he was part of shaping it,” Amathila said.
Amathila also shared anecdotes from the book, illustrating the trials Pohamba faced during the struggle, including his experiences as a Swapo activist and the brutal colonial repression that he and others endured.
“This book is a must-read for everybody who wants to understand the story of our nation,” Amathila declared when he officially launched the autobiography.
The former minister added that the book, Footprints of Hifikepunye Pohamba, will be a valuable addition to the knowledge of Namibia’s history while offering insights into the country’s path to independence and Pohamba’s significant role in shaping its future.
