Nkurenkuru: Kavango West Governor Sirkka Ausiku praised Founding President Sam Nujoma's contributions to rural development and education during a memorial service held at Nkurenkuru on Tuesday. The service was held under the theme 'Celebrating a Revolutionary, Honouring an African Icon.'

According to Namibia Press Agency, Ausiku highlighted Nujoma's encouragement for Namibians to prioritize education, noting his passion for it. She stated, "We all know education is the greatest equaliser. Our region continues to perform well in both Ordinary and AS level examinations. The region is determined to continue to promote and improve our education."

The governor also discussed Nujoma's focus on agriculture and food security, emphasizing his engagement with traditional authorities about land for development, particularly green schemes. "He used to visit our region frequently and engage the traditional authorities to avail land for development, specifically to set up green schemes, and encouraged the community to produce food. Even during his retirement, he continued to visit and encouraged the communities to produce food because a nation that cannot feed itself, cannot be respected. We will continue to promote agriculture programmes," said Ausiku.

Meanwhile, Swapo Kavango West regional coordinator Elina Diparo commemorated Nujoma's role in the formation of Swapo on 19 April 1960, and his efforts leading to Namibia's independence. "When Nujoma formed Swapo during the liberation struggle, he made the decision to prepare Namibia for independence. He worked tirelessly and stood firm to liberate our beloved country," she said.

Shambyu Traditionary Authority representative Sebastian Kantema described the late Founding President as an icon of hope, courage, and strength, noting his selfless leadership. Kantema stated that Nujoma was a visionary leader who recognized the role traditional authorities play in preserving culture. "Under his leadership, we can say with pride that the traditional authorities were accorded the respect they deserve," said Kantema.