Windhoek: The former Otjozondjupa governor and Swapo Party MP in the National Assembly, James Uerikua, is remembered as a leader whose enduring legacy lies in his deep-rooted commitment to uplifting the Gam community. According to Namibia Press Agency, speakers at a memorial service held at Parliament Gardens on Wednesday reflected on Uerikua's life of service, with family representative Christian John highlighting his hands-on approach to development and unwavering dedication to marginalised communities. Born on 02 August 1982, Uerikua's life journey was defined by determination and vision, rising from humble beginnings to become a respected leader and devoted servant of the people. Delivering the eulogy, John described him as a pillar of strength, both within his household and the wider community he cherished. He described Uerikua as a servant of the people who consistently translated leadership into tangible interventions, particularly in the Gam area, where he spent much of his time. 'To me, he was a de voted husband, a loving father and a cornerstone not only for his immediate family, but for the entire extended family and the Gam community where he spent most of his time,' John said. He added that Uerikua's deep sense of responsibility extended beyond public office, noting that his commitment to the people he served remained unwavering throughout his life. 'He believed in potential, he believed in opportunities, and more importantly, he believed in action,' John said. Beyond his formal roles in the public service, Uerikua's influence in Gam was shaped through grassroots initiatives. He played a central role in community structures such as the Gam Development Organisation and the Gam Community Development Trust, through which he championed access to basic services and youth empowerment. Among his notable contributions was spearheading efforts to bring electricity to households in the village through solar solutions. John recalled how Uerikua mobilised support by leveraging relationships within government , demonstrating his ability to bridge the gap between policy and lived realities. He noted that Uerikua's development model reflected a hybrid leadership style, combining institutional authority with community activism. His early career as an extension technician and development planner informed a pragmatic approach, enabling him to design interventions grounded in local needs. Equally significant was his investment in youth. Through initiatives such as youth development funds, Uerikua encouraged young people to pursue economic opportunities. 'He helped many youth to go into projects. Many applications went through his office,' John noted, underlining his role as a facilitator of opportunity. Uerikua, who died in a car accident during the Easter holiday earlier this month alongside his son Venturo, is set to be buried on Saturday at Gam in the Tsumkwe Constituency. His wife and two sons survived the crash in which the vehicle he was driving overturned along the Otjiwarongo-Okakarara road.