N$7m allocated to Nujoma regional memorial services

Government has allocated N$7 million to support regional memorial services in honour of late Founding President Sam Nujoma, who died on 8 February and is set to be buried on 1 March.This funding, which entails N$500 000 per region, ensures that Namibians from all corners of the country can participate in paying their last respect to the late liberation struggle icon. Nujoma, Namibia’s president between 1990 and 2005, died at the age of 95 in a Windhoek hospital.On Friday government announced that Nujoma will be accorded a Hero’s Funeral, set to take place on 1 March 2025 at Heroes Acre in Windhoek. Additionally, a national mourning period has been declared from 9 February to 1 March, during which flags will fly at half-mast.Funding and oversightThe N$7 million allocation will support regional memorial services, ensuring that all Namibians, regardless of where they live, can take part in commemorating Nujoma. The responsibility for procurement within this budget lies with the offices of the regional governors, and all invoices must be submitted to the Office of the Prime Minister for processing. "This allocation is a symbol of our commitment to ensuring every citizen can partake in honouring our Founding Father," said George Simataa, secretary to Cabinet. Simataa stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the use of these funds. "Regional governors must ensure that these funds are used effectively and by the law, to ensure Dr. Nujoma’s legacy is honoured with dignity."Expenditures must adhere to the Public Procurement Act of 2015, Simataa emphasized, further explaining that while the government wished to bring Nujoma's remains to all regions of Namibia, logistical challenges necessitated a more focused approach. The remains will be taken to key locations across the country as follows:20 February 2025: Etunda, Omusati Region21 February 2025: Ondangwa, Oshana Region22 February 2025: Rundu, Kavango East Region23 February 2025: Katima Mulilo, Zambezi Region24 February 2025: Grootfontein, Otjozondjupa Region25 February 2025: Walvis Bay, Erongo Region26 February 2025: Keetmanshoop, /Kharas RegionFinal memorial service and burialOn 27 February, Nujoma’s remains will return to Windhoek for a final national memorial service at Independence Stadium, scheduled for 28 February. "This service will offer the nation an opportunity to reflect on his immense contributions and reaffirm our commitment to the values he championed," said President Nangolo Mbumba recently. The burial will take place on 1 March 2025 at Heroes’ Acre, marking the conclusion of the national mourning period.Memorial tributes In the wake of Nujoma’s passing, Namibia’s creative community has expressed condolences through music and art. Musician Samuel Shines released a tribute song titled 'Tangi Kuku,' calling it a tribute to a visionary leader. Artists Big Ben and Ally Tobias have also contributed musical works that reflect Nujoma’s lasting influence on Namibia’s culture and politics.Religious leaders have shared personal stories about their work with Nujoma during Namibia's liberation struggle. Retired Bishop Kleopas Dumeni recalled working closely with Nujoma during key moments of the independence fight. “We were both activists... we worked so well together, sometimes out in the open and at other times in secret,” Dumeni said.Diverse perspectives on Nujoma’s legacyWhile many mourn the loss of Nujoma, some individuals have offered critical reflections on his legacy. Phil Ya Nangoloh, director of NamRights, acknowledged Nujoma’s vital role in Namibia’s liberation but also voiced concerns regarding human rights during his presidency. "While Nujoma was a key figure in Namibia’s freedom, he also held an autocratic style that led to divisions within the country,” Ya Nangoloh told the publication recently.

N$7m allocated to Nujoma regional memorial services

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-02-20

Please login to leave a comment

N$7m allocated to Nujoma regional memorial services

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-02-20

Please login to leave a comment

Login