Mirjam Shihepo
“My country, I have become a stranger in the country of my birth; now I find myself a stranger in a strange country. My country we are struggling for you, sacrificing for you, our lives, our strengths, and everything we got… ama tukondjere ove (While we are fighting for you).” These stirring lyrics from Jackson Kaujeua’s iconic song “Shilongo Shetu” resonate profoundly as I reflect on the legacy of our selfless Founding Father, His Excellency Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma. The words evoke Namibian culture, the wind of change, and the sacrifices that paved the way for our freedom. We stand deeply indebted to the giants of the motherland.
Seeking Understanding:
There is a biblical proverb that speaks of seeking wisdom, but above all, understanding. I have been psychologically trying to understand our elders during the national mourning period of our giant. On 25 February 2025, what started as a simple greeting from my parents turned into an almost two-hour conversation, where they shared their stories of war, exile, and sacrifice. Their voices carry the weight of history, but so do their silences, their hardened expressions, and the way they carry themselves. Perhaps this is where the gap between our generations lies, not with a lack of respect, but in a lack of shared experiences. It is up to us to bridge that gap, not with judgment but with a willingness to understand.
Unity for the Common Good:
The unity that defined Namibia’s liberation struggle can be seen in the brotherly bond between Dr. Sam Nujoma and Kenneth Kaunda, the first president of Zambia. Kaunda’s unwavering support for Namibia went beyond political strategy; it was rooted in genuine African solidarity. By offering Zambia as a refuge for the liberation movement, Kaunda facilitated the establishment of military camps and political offices in Lusaka, playing a pivotal role in Namibia’s journey to freedom. This mutual support reflects Dr. Nujoma’s belief that “the people united and striving to reach the same goal will always emerge victorious.” The alliance between Nujoma and Kaunda is a powerful example of what can be achieved when unity drives the common good.
Unforgotten Heroes:
The passing of our Founding Father has reignited discussions about our past, proving that the history taught in schools often fails to capture the depth of the sacrifices made. But history is not just something we inherit; it is something we must seek. I turned to books, like Never Follow the Wolf by Helao Shityuwete, a Namibian freedom fighter and son of a late rain king. In Chapter 10, Shityuwete was faced with a choice: academics or military training. With much consideration, military action appeared to be the only way to remove the South African apartheid administration in Namibia. What a bold move! One thing I continue to notice among our liberation heroes is their fierce sense of unity. “Forward Ever. Backward Never.”
The Battle for a Just Namibia:
The battle we face today is no longer against colonial oppressors but against the modern-day struggles that continue to affect us. The #ShutItAllDown protests, an act of defiance against gender-based violence and femicide, serve as a powerful example. If you were not actively advocating during these protests, you cannot truly understand the frustration and immense pain of young Namibians who demanded justice. Violence, abuse, and systemic marginalization persist, especially among the most vulnerable communities. We continue to fight against tribalism, greed, and a system that perpetuates inequality. We are also battling poverty, unemployment, and a system that often feels indifferent to the plight of the youth. Young people are increasingly frustrated with the political systems that once inspired hope. Their discontent is reflected in the choices they make, particularly in their approach to politics.
Respecting Our Elders:
I would rob myself of dignity if I did not speak on the normalized disrespect among young people toward their elders, especially during the mourning period for our late giant. What some may call “memes,” I view as a form of disrespect disguised as humor. From mocking the way our leaders speak to ridiculing their appearance and conduct, the line between freedom of expression and hate speech has been blurred. We must remember that being born free does not mean misusing that freedom. Those that we are shaming are our leaders, our fathers, and our mothers. It is just not okay.
Thank You, Tatekulu:
As I conclude this tribute, I acknowledge that we may never fully comprehend the depth of the events before 1990. But what I do know is that we are the children of the soil, carrying the spirit of our ancestors within us. With dignity and purpose, we stand for what truly matters. Hats off to you, H.E. Dr. Sam Nujoma. Se otwapandula. (We are thankful.)
Mirjam Shihepo is passionate about the creative industry’s potential and can be reached on LinkedIn: Mirjam Shihepo.
