AMINUIS: Long-serving leader of the Batswana ba Namibia Traditional Authority, Chief Constance Letang Kgosiemang, was on Saturday laid to rest at the Aminuis Roman Catholic location – home of the Batswana ba Namibia Traditional Authority.
Kgosiemang, who has been at the helm of that traditional authority since 26 April 1979, died of cardiac arrest at his homestead at Netso in the Kalahari Constituency of the Omaheke Region on 15 August 2012.
Speaking at the funeral, President Hifikepunye Pohamba said the late Kgosiemang was a dedicated and unwavering leader of his people, who had stood firm in the face of adversity for good causes.
He described Kgosiemang as a notable foot soldier in the process of nation building and the promotion of the well-being of all Namibians.
“As a leader, he led by example and encouraged his people, especially the young people, to always do their best and lead purposeful lives.
In this light, Honourable Chief Kgosiemang was an exemplary leader, whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” Pohamba said.
Kgosiemang was an active member of the Council of Traditional Leaders which advices the president on matters related to the utilisation of communal land amongst others.
The late chief was highly revered for his conciliatory manner, which has enabled the Batswana ba Namibia to live in peace and tranquility with their neighbours.
The departed chief will also be remembered for his friendly demeanour and his willingness to interact with citizens from different communities.
He was born and bred in Aminuis where he attended school before moving to the Dobra Training College.
Kgosiemang was a descendant of Chief Morwe, who moved with his people from Kuruman in the Cape (South Africa) to settle at Aminuis during the 19th Century.
As the leader and founder of the now defunct Seoposengwe Party, Kgosiemang was elected to the Constituent Assembly after his party joined the Democratic Turnhalle Alliance (DTA).
Kgosiemang, also known as ‘Kaptein’, served as the Seoposengwe Party president, deputised by Gregor Tibinyane, while Timotius Mokhatu served as chairman.
The party, founded in 1980, was the sole representative of the Batswana people in Namibia.
As one of the founding parents of the Namibian nation, Kgosiemang also served on the National Assembly before he retired from active politics.
He leaves behind his wife Emilie Sekopane Kgosiemang, seven children and 21 grandchildren.