Walvis Bay: Mourners from the Erongo and Kunene regions gathered in solemn unity to bid farewell to late Founding President Sam Nujoma during a memorial service at Kuisebmond Stadium in Walvis Bay on Tuesday. In his tribute, former Erongo Governor and Namibian Ambassador to Brazil Samuel Nuyoma described Nujoma as a ‘true Giant of History’ and ‘a revolutionary icon’ who dedicated his life to securing Namibia’s independence and fostering democracy, freedom, and justice.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Nujoma reflected on the loss of a leader who championed education, economic independence, and national unity, stating, ‘It is a deep sense of realisation to know that the revolutionary voice of our commander has been silenced.’ He recalled the late founding father’s firm belief in education as the foundation for national development, noting that even in exile, Nujoma urged young Namibians to pursue knowledge, recognising that a well-educated generation would be the cornerstone of a self-reliant and prosperous
Namibia.
Risto Kapenda, a veteran of the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN), provided an account of Nujoma’s leadership during the armed struggle. He described him as a fearless fighter for human dignity and a disciplinarian who shaped focus on the liberation of the motherland. Kapenda recounted the gruelling years of exile, during which young Namibians underwent military training in countries such as Angola, Zambia, and Botswana. ‘We were turned into hardened, windblown, tough, and rough guerrilla fighters,’ he said, recalling how Nujoma played a pivotal role in leading PLAN’s military strategy against the apartheid regime.
Kapenda credited Nujoma for overseeing the transition from guerrilla warfare to conventional military operations, which later formed the foundation of Namibia’s Defence Force. ‘President Nujoma was not only a tactician but a strategist who ensured Namibia’s independence was achieved,’ Kapenda emphasised.
A granddaughter of Nujoma, Winnie Mukupuki, who spoke on behalf of the fam
ily, described him as ‘a peaceful individual’ whose legacy extended beyond politics. She spoke of his unwavering commitment to Namibia’s unity and the countless lives he touched through his compassion and wisdom.