Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Many remember former education minister Katrina Hanse-Himarwa for her contributions to Namibia’s education system.
Hanse-Himarwa passed away early on Sunday morning at the age of 57.
Her husband, Ghenno, who announced her death, remarked on her legacy of love and kindness.
“Her unwavering strength, compassion, and the joy she brought us will forever be remembered,” he said.
Hanse-Himarwa was born on 22 January 1967, in Hoachanas in the Hardap Region, where she also started her political journey.
She was a member of the SWAPO central committee at the time of her passing.
Hanse-Himarwa has worked as a teacher and school principal since 1987.
Her political career took off in 2004 after winning the Mariental Rural constituency regional council elections on the SWAPO ticket.
The same year, she was appointed governor of Hardap Region, a position she held until 2015.
In 2015, the late President Hage Geingob appointed her as Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, a position she held until 9 July 2019.
During her tenure as minister, Hanse-Himarwa prioritised the development and renovation of school infrastructure, implemented curriculum reforms, and emphasised the importance of teacher training and inclusive education.
In a tribute message, President Nangolo Mbumba described her as a passionate teacher and educational reformer.
He noted that her work improved access to education for Namibian learners.
“The passing of honourable Hanse-Himarwa robs our nation of a patriot who fought courageously for the birth of an independent nation in which the Namibian learner and child could gain access to education and pursue his or her dreams. During this period of grief for our nation and the family, I extend on behalf of the people and government of the Republic of Namibia my most sincere condolences to her husband, Gheno Himarwa, the children and the entire family,” said Mbumba.
McHenry Venaani, leader of the PDM and the official opposition, also paid tribute, recalling her diligent service as governor of the Hardap region and minister of education.
Venaani recalled her as a kind colleague whose contributions to the country will live on.
“She was compassionate and kind-hearted as much as she was staunch and unfaltering,” he said.
The leader of the Landless People’s Movement, Bernadus Swartbooi, described her in an interview with NBC as a joyful and compassionate human being with a tough and firm character.
“Many Namibians would testify that we saw the strong woman who grew into a formidable political leader who was not shy to communicate when there were injustices that she could not tolerate. She was known to speak her mind even in the most uncomfortable places and tell the uncomfortable truth to whoever needed to hear it,’ he said.
During her tenure, Hanse-Himarwa oversaw amendments to the Education Act to improve school governance and management.
She enhanced the roles and responsibilities of school boards and ensured that children with disabilities received appropriate support.
This led to the solidification of free primary education in Namibia, making education accessible to all children regardless of financial constraints.
Pinehas Ekongo, principal of Oshigambo School, highlighted these achievements.
“Hanse-Himarwa’s efforts to make education more accessible and equitable are seen as a key part of her legacy,” said Ekongo.
Sanet Steenkamp, executive director of the Ministry of Education, emphasised Hanse-Himarwa’s commitment to education and inclusive leadership.
“It is thanks to her that a special programme was developed for underqualified employed teachers,” said Steenkamp.
Sophia Shaningwa, SWAPO Party secretary general, praised Hanse-Himarwa’s role in the fight for Namibia’s independence and her service to the country.
“Her name shall forever be embedded in the history of our country. When the young fearless sons and daughters of our motherland united under the banners of NANSO and SWAPO to oppose apartheid and colonialism, Comrade Katrina Hanse-Himarwa was one of the NANSO Pioneers who organised anti-apartheid protests and served as a voice for all students standing against foreign occupation, colonial oppression, and exploitation,” said Shaningwa.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Professor Peter Katjavivi expressed sadness at her death, noting her contributions to education and regional governance.
“In Honourable Katrina Hanse-Himarwa, we have lost a dedicated public servant whose contributions to our nation will be cherished and remembered for years to come. Her leadership in education and governance has left an indelible mark on our society,” said Katjavivi.
Hanse-Himarwa’s tenure was marked by policy reforms aimed at modernising and improving Namibia’s education system.
Her initiatives included improving school infrastructure, integrating information and communication technology into education, and supporting school feeding programs.
In 2022, the Mariental municipality named a street after her.
