Allexer Namundjembo
The world has reacted with an outpouring of condolences following the passing of Namibia’s founding president, Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, a key figure in the country’s liberation struggle.
Nujoma, who passed away on Saturday evening at the age of 95, was revered not only in Namibia but across the African continent.
His leadership in the fight for Namibia’s independence from South African apartheid and his role in shaping a free Namibia left a lasting impact on history.
World leaders paid tribute to his legacy.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” and acknowledged his crucial role in both Namibia’s and South Africa’s liberation struggles.
“President Nujoma’s leadership of a free Namibia laid the foundation for the solidarity and partnership our two countries share today—a partnership we will continue to deepen as neighbours and friends,” Ramaphosa said.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu honoured Nujoma as a pan-Africanist and a close ally of Tanzania during the Liberation Period.
”Dr. Nujoma lived a life of service that shaped not only his country’s destiny but also inspired generations to stand up for the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice,” she said.
Kenyan President William Ruto praised Nujoma as a “selfless, courageous and visionary leader.”’
“President Nujoma was a selfless, courageous and visionary leader who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of his country,” said Ruto.
Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, recognised Nujoma’s leadership in securing Namibia’s independence and fostering Pan-African solidarity.
“President Sam Nujoma heroically marshalled the Namibian people during the darkest hours of our liberation struggle until the attainment of freedom and independence from apartheid South Africa on 21 March 1990,” the Zanu-PF said on its X platform.
Within Namibia, various political groups reflected on Nujoma’s legacy.
The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) Youth League acknowledged his role in laying the foundation for Namibia’s democratic system.
“As the youth of this country, we recognise the importance of remembering and honouring those who contributed to our nation’s freedom. In this moment of national mourning, we stand in solidarity with the Nujoma family, the SWAPO Party Youth League, and the Namibian people. May his life serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the betterment of our country,” said Inajovandu Katjepunda, the spokesperson for the PDM Youth League.
The Affirmative Repositioning celebrated Nujoma as the embodiment of resistance against colonialism and imperialism. George Kambala, spokesperson for Affirmative Repositioning, highlighted Nujoma’s work in land reform, education, social justice, and national unity.
The Landless People’s Movement (LPM) Youth Command Element mourned the loss of a “militant revolutionary,” while also calling for continued efforts to achieve true economic freedom in Namibia.
