BoldNEWS Africa , Monitor Online By Oludairo Johnson Daniel 08032229630
The Namibian government officially confirmed the death of Sam Nujoma, the nation’s first president and a central figure in its liberation struggle. Nujoma passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, following a three-week hospital stay due to illness.
In a statement, President Nangolo Mbumba expressed the nation’s sorrow, calling Nujoma’s passing a loss that “has shaken the country deeply.” He described Nujoma as a leader who “inspired us to rise to our feet and become masters of this vast land of our ancestors.” Mbumba also praised Nujoma’s exceptional service to Namibia, emphasizing his long and consequential life.
Nujoma’s journey to national leadership began long before independence. As a young man, he became deeply involved in the fight against colonial oppression. He helped found the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in the 1960s, which led the struggle for Namibia’s liberation from South Africa. After years of guerrilla warfare and international advocacy, Namibia finally gained independence in 1990.
As president from 1990 to 2005, Nujoma played a pivotal role in guiding the country through its early years of freedom. His presidency was marked by efforts to establish a democratic state, combat poverty, and empower women and children. His policies of national reconciliation helped secure peaceful relations between the country’s white and black communities, and Namibia was hailed as one of Africa’s success stories.
A towering figure in Namibia’s history, Nujoma was known for his charisma and down-to-earth personality. His unassuming nature endeared him to many, whether he was joining a fun run in a tracksuit or insisting his driver hang back from official motorcades. But he also possessed the resolute determination of a revolutionary. Throughout the decades-long struggle for Namibia’s independence, Nujoma’s leadership was instrumental in securing the country’s liberation.
Born into a modest family in northern Namibia, Nujoma’s early life was shaped by hardship. A man of humble beginnings, he spent much of his early life working on the railways, where he cultivated a deep passion for politics and the fight for freedom. Despite limited education, he was a visionary leader, inspired by the resistance of Namibian figures like Hendrik Witbooi, who fought German colonial forces in the late 19th century.
Nujoma’s legacy extends far beyond his presidency. He is remembered not just as a national hero, but as the father of a nation—his efforts helped forge a united and democratic Namibia. In 2005, the Namibian parliament officially recognized Nujoma as the “Founding Father of Namibia.”
Although he retired from public office in the mid-2000s, his influence endured. Nujoma continued to hold sway within the ruling SWAPO party, where he remained an influential figure until 2007. His personal convictions and leadership style, while at times controversial, were integral to Namibia’s emergence as a democratic and peaceful state.
As the country mourns the loss of this iconic leader, Nujoma leaves behind a profound legacy. His journey from exiled freedom fighter to respected head of state stands as a testament to his enduring commitment to his people and to the principles of justice, equality, and self-determination.
In his later years, Nujoma retreated from the public spotlight, preferring to spend time with his family. He is remembered for his unwavering conviction, humility, and the vision that guided Namibia through its most challenging times.
