Windhoek: As Namibians commemorate Heroes Day, countless stories serve as reminders of the sacrifices, blood, and resilience of freedom fighters. Among them is the harrowing, yet inspiring, journey of Swapo activist Richard Mchali Kamwi. Born at Munga in the Chobe District of Botswana, Kamwi became a Swapo activist in 1974. His life took a dramatic turn on 28 October 1985 when he was arrested in Katima Mulilo while speaking to fellow activist, the late Aaron Mushimba, at the only telephone booth in town.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Kamwi was taken to the charge office where he faced interrogation about his activities, including security-related responses from Sam Nujoma. The following morning, he was placed in a sack, tied up, and transported to Kalimbeza, where he endured relentless torture. Kamwi recalled the brutality of his captors, who used electric shocks on him as a means of coercion. Despite the unimaginable pain, Kamwi had been prepared for such ordeals by Brigadier General James Awala and the late Mathew Kamedo.

For three months, Kamwi was subjected to severe torture, starvation, and constant mockery from his captors. On 29 January 1986, an opportunity for escape arose during a night of heavy rains. Kamwi managed to untie his feet and made a daring escape, running towards Kalimbeza. He sought help from relatives and acquaintances, but many were too afraid to assist him. Despite the challenges, Kamwi persisted, eventually finding refuge with Thomas Nulwino, who aided his journey to safety.

Kamwi’s escape continued as he made his way through the treacherous terrain, narrowly avoiding capture. He was eventually reunited with his family and managed to cross into Botswana, where he received care from his grandmother’s family before reporting to the Kasane police. After a week in the ICU in Lusaka, Kamwi was sent to Luanda and then to Lubango, where he encountered Deputy Army Commander Jesus Awala. Under Awala’s care, Kamwi regained his strength and returned to the frontlines of Namibia’s liberation struggle.

Kamwi’s experiences left lasting scars, both physically and emotionally. He suffers from the long-term effects of torture and reflects on the sacrifices made for Namibia’s independence. After the country gained independence in 1990, Kamwi served as Minister of Health and Social Services from 2005 to 2015. Today, as a commercial farmer, his story remains a powerful testament to the resilience, bravery, and sacrifices of Namibia’s freedom fighters.