Niël Terblanché
In an emotional farewell, Inge Zaamwani, a special adviser to President Hage Geingob, paid a heartfelt personal tribute to the late Head of State.
The tribute emphasized the profound impact President Geingob had on Namibia and the world, echoing the sentiments of countless individuals who have come forward to honour his memory.
Over the last three weeks, tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from all corners of the world, a testament to the remarkable life and legacy of a man who was, by all accounts, larger than life.
The sudden passing of President Geingob on February 4th has left a void in the hearts of many, as the nation and international community reflect on the indelible mark, he left on the world stage.
Zaamwani’s tribute to President Geingob was not just a farewell but a celebration of a life well-lived.
Drawing inspiration from Michael Josephson, a law professor known for his work on ethical leadership, Zaamwani emphasized the values that defined Geingob’s life.
Josephson’s poem, “Living a Life That Matters,” served as a touching reminder of the ethos that the President embodied: a life marked not by personal achievements or material possessions but by the impact one has on others, the integrity of one’s character, and the legacy of empowerment and compassion one leaves behind.
According to Zaamwani, President Geingob’s approach to leadership was inclusive, characterized by his generosity, his role as a master teacher, and his relentless pursuit of empowering others.
His significant contributions and impeccable track record have left an indelible mark on Namibia and beyond.
Geingob’s leadership style, marked by its inclusivity and compassion, will be profoundly missed, though his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
Zaamwani’s tribute concluded with a heartfelt farewell to the “people’s President,” a “distinguished son of the soil,” and a “son of the great triangle,” whose revolutionary soul’s quest for justice and equality has now come to an end. In her words, President Geingob ran a good race, finished the course, and kept the faith, leaving behind a nation forever grateful for his service and leadership.
She said that President Geingob’s vision for a just, equitable society and his unwavering commitment to the voiceless in Africa and beyond will continue to resonate.
“His legacy, characterized by a life that truly mattered, will remain a beacon of hope and inspiration for many years to come. May his revolutionary soul find eternal peace,” she concluded.