Namibia Mourns the Passing of Sam Nujoma, the Nation's First President

Sam Nujoma, Namibia's first president and a key figure in the country's liberation movement, has died at 95. His legacy of peace, reconciliation, and nation-building has garnered condolences and tributes from around the globe.

The first president of independent Namibia, Sam Nujoma, has passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek, as announced by the current Namibian President, Nangolo Mbumba. Nujoma was instrumental in the country's liberation from South African rule, co-founding the South West Africa People's Organisation (Swapo) in the 1960s and leading the struggle that led to Namibia's independence in 1990. Following independence, he served as president until 2005 and continued to influence the nation through his leadership of Swapo until 2007.

President Mbumba expressed deep sorrow over Nujoma’s death, noting how he inspired generations to claim their heritage. He described Nujoma as the “founding father” of Namibia, whose lengthy and impactful life was dedicated to the service of the nation. Many Namibians have expressed their grief at losing a leader affectionately considered the "father of the nation."

The former president had recently been hospitalized for three weeks due to an illness from which he could not recover. In a poignant gesture, President Mbumba visited Nujoma’s family, including his wife, Kovambo Theopoldine Katjimune, who is also 91 years old, to offer condolences.

Nujoma is remembered for fostering peace and stability after independence, advocating for reconciliation that allowed for the white community’s continued involvement in the economy. His progressive policies included strong support for women's and children's rights, requiring fathers to contribute to the maintenance of their children born out of wedlock.

Upcoming Namibian Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah reflected on Nujoma's visionary leadership and his dedication to the nation’s liberation and development, which shaped the foundation for Namibia’s unity and freedom.

Tributes have poured in from leaders across Africa, with African Union Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat lauding Nujoma as a beacon of courage. South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted Nujoma's crucial role not just in Namibian independence, but also in the struggle against colonialism that led to the fall of apartheid in South Africa. Similarly, Kenya’s President William Ruto recognized Nujoma's lasting impact on both Namibia and Africa at large.

Details concerning Nujoma's funeral arrangements have yet to be released.