Nujoma: A legend in his lifetime

Very few people achieve the status of a legend in their lifetime, and Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, co-founder and leader of the SWAPO Party and founding President of the Republic of Namibia, was one such individual. When Namibia gained its independence in 1990, Dr. Nujoma emerged as a leader who commanded instant respect, admiration, and authority with his sheer presence. Despite the enormity of his people's dreams that he, along with his fellow comrades, carried in his heart, he remained affable, gentle, and attentive. His bright, piercing glances, complemented by an arresting warm smile, left an unforgettable impression on all who met him.During his visits to New York, where he, alongside his deputies - Hage Geingob, Theo-Ben Gurirab, Hidipo Hamutenya (all of whom have departed before him) - masterfully executed a historic diplomatic effort, one could not help but be struck by the power of his passion and persuasion. Their efforts, bolstered by full Pan-African support, led to United Nations Security Council Resolution 435, which set the stage for Namibia's independence.President Nujoma not only led the Namibian people to freedom but, as founding President, also devised a strategy of reconciliation and consolidation under the banner of “Unity, Liberty, and Justice.” This vision has allowed Namibia to pursue a unified national identity, avoiding the post-independence fragmentation that has plagued other nations. Thanks to his unwavering commitment and that of his fellow leaders, Namibia has witnessed smooth transitions of power, further reinforcing the foundation of the Republic’s democratic governance.After overseeing a free Namibia for thirty-five years as the young nation pursued the dreams for which its people fought so valiantly, President Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma has taken his bow. He departs having acquitted himself honorably and nobly, leaving behind a profound, rich, and enormous legacy that will only grow larger with time. As he joins other leaders of the Namibian struggle and those who have gone before him, as he returns to the fold of the ancestors, and as he takes his final rest in the tranquil bosom of God, my heart and thoughts - and those of my family - go out to his son, the Honourable Utoni Nujoma, and the rest of his family and friends. Our condolences also go to the nation and people of Namibia, who already sorely miss him, and indeed to all of Africa, which stood in solidarity with him and his comrades during the long struggle for liberation - a struggle that was quintessentially a collective, uncompromising continental mission to free every square inch of the continent.In paying tribute to President Sam Nujoma, one must also honour the memory of the late President Hage Geingob, who passed away last year, only a year and four days before the founding President. Our thoughts, admiration, and prayers are with President Nangolo Mbumba for his steadfast stewardship of the nation, including leading Namibia in bidding farewell to two presidents in a single year - the first two to pass on. Our well-wishes also go to ex-President Hifikepunye Pohamba, wishing him continued strength and joy, and to Vice-President and President-elect, Honourable Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, with hopes for wisdom, strength, clarity, and God’s guidance as she assumes the responsibility of steering the Republic of Namibia towards a resilient and prosperous future in this new era.In an autograph of his autobiography, Where Others Wavered, to a mutual friend, President Nujoma wrote: “A united people striving to achieve common good for all members of society will always emerge victorious.” There could be no better epitaph to honour the memory of this giant.May his soul rest in perfect peace and tranquility.Dr. Joseph O. Okpaku, Sr.New York

Nujoma: A legend in his lifetime

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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Nujoma: A legend in his lifetime

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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