President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of  Lazarus !Guiteb.

He was a respected veteran of Namibia’s liberation struggle and a Robben Island survivor.

 He died on 15 July 2025, aged 83.

In an official message of condolences shared by the Presidential Press Secretary, on Friday, President Nandi-Ndaitwah hailed !Guiteb is a fearless patriot and dedicated freedom fighter.

He endured years of harsh imprisonment on Robben Island for his role in Namibia’s quest for independence. 

She described him as “a dedicated freedom fighter, who made enormous sacrifices for the liberation of his motherland”. 

“Due to his dedication and commitment to the liberation struggle, Comrade !Guiteb was incarcerated in the notorious Robben Island prison and endured harsh treatment with his comrades, such as Herman Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo, Eliazer Tuhadeleni, among others,” the President stated.

Sacrifice

Born in 1942, !Guiteb became politically active during the early years of Namibia’s anti-colonial resistance. 

He was an early member of Swapo, playing a crucial role in underground mobilisation efforts within Namibia while the armed struggle intensified from exile.

His activism led to his arrest by the Apartheid authorities.

 He was sentenced to imprisonment on Robben Island – South Africa’s notorious prison for political prisoners.

There, he spent years alongside fellow Namibian leaders like Ya Toivo and Tuhadeleni.

After his release, !Guiteb continued to support the liberation movement, advocating for justice and equality until Namibia achieved independence in 1990. 

He remained active in community work and Swapo political structures, often sharing his experience with the younger generation and reminding them of the price of freedom.

 !Guiteb is remembered as a humble yet resolute leader, whose lifelong dedication to justice inspired many. 

He leaves behind a legacy of courage, resilience and unwavering patriotism.

Details of the memorial and burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and government in the coming days.