Maihapa Ndjavera

Festus Hamalwa

Much like the biblical tale of Genesis, the final farewell of late Founding President Sam Nujoma will follow the path where his remarkable journey began – Etunda.

It is there where Nujoma was born on 12 May, 95 years ago.

This symbolic journey through Namibia – a country he played an instrumental role in building and shaping – marks the closing chapter of a life dedicated to the nation’s independence, growth, unity and prosperity.

As Namibia prepares to bid farewell to Nujoma, the nation is set to embark on a poignant journey of remembrance.
Following his death on 8 February 2025, Nujoma’s body will be transported across the country for a series of regional memorial services, starting tomorrow in the Omusati region.

This solemn occasion marks a significant moment for many Namibians, who revered Nujoma as a symbol of liberation and national unity.
The ceremonial procession will commence at dawn, with Nujoma’s remains leaving the venue where they have been held. 

The first stop will be State House for a ceremony presided over by President Nangolo Mbumba. 

Following this, a brief prayer session will take place at Nujoma’s private residence outside Windhoek, allowing family members to pay their respects before the body is escorted to the Hosea Kutako International Airport.
There, one of the Shaanxi Y-9E military aircraft, owned by the Namibian Defence Force, will be on standby to transport Nujoma’s mortal remains across Namibia.

These details were revealed by defence minister Frans Kapofi yesterday upon enquiry.
Information minister Emma Theofelus said around midday, the body will be flown to Ondangwa, and then transported to Etunda for the memorial service.

She urged citizens to line up along the route from the airport through Ongwediva and Oshakati to Okahao and Etunda village, offering a final salute to the man who dedicated his life to Namibia’s independence from the repugnant apartheid South African system.
The regional memorial services will continue across various locations: Eenhana on 21 February, Rundu on 22 February, Katima Mulilo on 23 February, Grootfontein on 24 February, Walvis Bay on 25 February, and Keetmanshoop on 26 February.
Each stop will provide an opportunity for local communities to honour his legacy.
On 27 February, Nujoma’s body will return to Windhoek for a grand procession through the capital before the final national memorial service at Independence Stadium on 28 February. The culmination of this period of mourning will occur with his burial at Heroes’ Acre on 1 March.

The day has been declared a public holiday in Nujoma’s honour.
The government has declared a national mourning period from 9 February to 1 March, during which flags will be flown at half-mast.
Nujoma is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to Namibia’s liberation struggle, and his pivotal role in leading the nation towards independence in 1990. 

His leadership spanned 15 years as president, during which he became known as a father figure to many Namibians.
As the country mourns his loss, it reflects on his contributions to democracy and stability in a nation which emerged from decades of colonial rule and conflict.
While Namibians prepare to say their goodbyes, they are reminded not only of Nujoma’s accomplishments, but also of the values he championed throughout his life: unity, resilience and hope for a brighter future.
Theofelus said preparations for regional memorial services honouring Nujoma are at advanced stages.
The government has allocated N$500 000 to support these regional memorial services, ensuring that Namibians across the country can participate in paying their respects to the former president.
She said the selection of regions was in consideration of logistics, infrastructure availability, the routes to be undertaken by Nujoma’s body, and the time available between 20 February and 1 March.
Theofelus clarified that the body will be at all memorial services.

 It will lie in state before moving to the next location. 

The minister said the State will not provide transportation for citizens who wish to attend the memorial services.
“The responsibility of the N$500 000 for procurement within this budget lies with the offices of the regional governors. All invoices must be submitted to the Office of the Prime Minister for processing,” said Secretary to Cabinet George Simataa.
Last week, he stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the use of these funds. 

Simataa thus urged regional governors to ensure that the funds are used effectively and as per the law. 

He added that expenditures must adhere to the Public Procurement Act of 2015.

Road users
To ensure a seamless procession across various towns, Inspector General Joseph Shikongo urged motorists to adhere to the regulations set by the police during the transportation of Nujoma’s body.
“During the departure of the body from Ondangwa Airport to Etunda, motorists should follow the instructions provided by the police,” he said.
He added that the remains will be transported and escorted by security detail between towns, accompanied by dignitaries and key officials.
The police escorts will lead to an expected increase in vehicular traffic on the national roads, which may cause busy or congested roads.

“As the nation prepares for these memorial services and burial, it is vital that motorists, pedestrians and all other road users cooperate to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety for everyone involved,” Shikongo added.
He said it is important to respect State motorcades and convoys during this time and beyond.

Shikongo furthermore called on motorists, pedestrians and all road users to always comply with the instructions of traffic officers at various points to manage the movement of the convoys.
“Motorists should yield to State motorcades to allow uninterrupted traffic flow, avoid overtaking, or cutting into a motorcade/convoy. Such actions could lead to serious accidents. They should refrain from attempting to touch the hearse during the procession, as it endangers lives,” he continued.
Shikongo said the increased traffic and security measures, such as temporary road closures and diversions, may cause delays and frustration for some.
Therefore, everyone should remain patient, plan accordingly, and consider alternative routes to avoid delays.
Shikongo said personnel will be deployed to manage the procession to ensure law and order are maintained.
“Let us all play our part in upholding road safety and respect for official movements,” he urged.
-mndjavera@nepc.com.na
-fhamalwa@nepc.com.na