Ester Mbathera
Former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor described the late Founding President of Namibia, Sam Nujoma, as a visionary leader and freedom fighter who left a lasting impact on Namibia and Africa.
Kufuor made the remarks during a memorial held in honour of Nujoma in Accra, Ghana, on Friday.
“Dr Nujoma was more than just a political leader. He was a towering figure of strength and resilience, whose unwavering commitment to the liberation of his people epitomised the essence of African unity and self-determination,’ he said.
According to Kufuor, Namibia emerged as a symbol of hope and stability in Southern Africa under Nujoma’s leadership.
In 2004, Kufuor, then President of Ghana, awarded Nujoma the Companion of the Order of the Star of Ghana for his exceptional contributions to Namibia, Africa, and the global community.
“Dr Nujoma’s legacy is indelible. His name will forever resonate in the hearts of the Namibian people and all Africans as a symbol of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. He has indeed served his country and continent with distinction, leaving an enduring mark that will be cherished for generations,” said Kufuor.
Ghana’s minister of foreign affairs, Samuel Okudzeto called Nujoma a beacon of hope and resilience.
“His unwavering commitment to the cause of independence inspired generations of Namibians and Africans to stand firm in the face of adversity. For us in Ghana, the legacies of President Nujoma and President Nkrumah (Kwame) are intertwined as indelible symbols of our collective struggle for self-determination and Pan-Africanism,” he said.
According to Okudzeto, Nujoma’s leadership exemplified Nkrumah’s vision, demonstrating a common belief in and dedication to the total liberation of Africa.
NamiSelma Ashipala-Musavyi, Namibia’s High Commissioner to Ghana, described Nujoma as a legendary figure, revered by many and feared by the apartheid regime.
No door was too big for Sam Nujoma to walk through, and no table was too high or too low for him to sit and advocate for the plight of the Namibian people’s freedom and independence. Through turbulence, thunderstorms and lightning, real or political, Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma stood firm and did not waver,” she said.
Ashipala-Musavyi added that Namibians are indebted to Nujoma for the immense contribution he made to the country during and after the liberation struggle.
The memorial service was attended by members of the diplomatic corps from Nigeria, Mozambique, Cuba, and Samia Nkrumah, daughter of Ghana’s late President Kwame Nkrumah. Kufa Edward Chinosa, Dean of SADC Ambassadors, also graced the event.
