WALVIS BAY – One of the late Founding President Sam Nujoma’s most significant contributions was his role in the reintegration of Walvis Bay into Namibia after independence.

Namport’s CEO Andrew Kanime said Nujoma understood the strategic importance of Namibia’s ports and their role in fostering economic growth.

The CEO first encountered the founding president in 1989 as a young high school student after being transported to attend a political gathering in
Ondangwa.

Speaking during Namport’s memorial service in Nujoma’s honour on Friday, Kanime reflected on how Nujoma lived for his people, and how his dedication to Namibia’s liberation, unity and economic growth shaped the country’s destiny.

Nujoma relentlessly pushed for Walvis Bay’s return, leading to the Treaty on Walvis Bay, which took effect on 1 March 1994.

“Namport was born from this reintegration, and his influence extended beyond policy. He did not just see ports as infrastructure. He saw them as lifelines connecting Namibia to the world.

I remember him saying ‘our ports are the gateways to our nation’s prosperity. They are the bridges that connect us to the world, and the anchors that stabilise our economy’,” Kanime noted.

He added that even after his presidency, Nujoma remained actively engaged in Namibia’s maritime developments.

“His house in Walvis Bay was strategically positioned to allow him to oversee port operations at any time. He took great pride in our ports and would bring visitors to witness their growth,” he shared with a smile.

“In November 2021, I had the privilege of hosting him at the port. His enthusiasm was undeniable, he asked detailed questions, expressed admiration and did not want to leave. It took some convincing from his entourage to finally escort him out,” he narrated.

Kanime said for the Namport team, these encounters were more than ceremonial.

 They served as a source of motivation, as every time Nujoma visited, they were reminded of their responsibility to maintain the standards he set.

“He believed our ports were not just for Namibia but for the entire African continent. His vision for regional cooperation and economic integration continues to guide us.

“As Namibia’s ports expand and modernise, they do so on the foundation laid by Nujoma. His unwavering commitment to Namibia’s success will always inspire us,” he said. – Nampa