Allexer Namundjembo
The Sam Nujoma Foundation is finalising preparations for the opening of its new office building in Windhoek.
Its chairperson Nahas Angula told the Windhoek Observer last week that the board of trustees is completing the final arrangements.
Angula stated that the foundation will inform the public once it concludes its preparations.
The new office is expected to support the foundation’s work of preserving and promoting the legacy of late founding president Sam Nujoma.
Nujoma became Namibia’s first president at independence in 1990 and served until 2005.
He played a central role in the country’s liberation struggle and post-independence development.
The Sam Nujoma Foundation was established in 2004 following Nujoma’s retirement from the presidency and was officially registered as a non-profit organisation in 2005.
The foundation was created to promote and preserve the vision, ideals and goals associated with Nujoma’s leadership and contribution to Namibia’s development.
Historian Julius Johannes said a dedicated office for the foundation could contribute to preserving Namibia’s history and national heritage.
He said the facility could also provide researchers in history and heritage studies with better access to organised information and records.
Johannes said preserving the legacies of national leaders should remain a priority.
“In the future, similar initiatives could also be considered for former presidents Hifikepunye Pohamba and the late Hage Geingob to ensure that their contributions to Namibia’s history are properly preserved,” he said.
He also suggested the creation of physical and digital museums dedicated to former presidents and former first ladies or gentlemen to make their histories and contributions more accessible to the public.
Social activist Johannes Johannes said foundations can play an important role in preserving the legacies of leaders after they leave public office.
He said Nujoma recognised the value of such an institution by establishing the foundation during his lifetime, allowing his values and vision to continue reaching future generations.
According to Johannes, those managing the foundation are continuing that work through its programmes and projects.
He said foundations are not the only way to preserve the legacies of national leaders.
“Other models, including charitable organisations and institutions, may also be suitable depending on the wishes of those involved,” he said.
