Music, tears, and laughter were on display on Wednesday night as the nation gathered at Windhoek’s Zoo Park to honour and celebrate the life of music veteran, Hans ‘Ras’ Sheehama.
Sheehama (59) died on Friday in Windhoek. Although the air was heavy with loss, it was still alive with the spirit of the artist who had given so much to Namibia’s music, as the attendees sang and danced to the one thing that defined him – music.
The night was also a rollercoaster of emotions. Shikololo Ekondombolo ignited the stage with an energetic performance that had fans dancing and singing together, a joyful tribute to Sheehama’s enduring spirit.
Musician Big Ben moved the crowd with a special song composed in honour of the late reggae icon.
One of the most heartbreaking moments came when Sheehama’s former band performed. One member couldn’t hold back tears while singing.
King Tee Dee also ignited the stage. The artists’ performances served as a powerful reminder of Sheehama’s profound influence. The concert was not just a farewell; it was a celebration of a life that inspired, uplifted, and united a nation.
King Tee Dee recalled the first time he saw the departed artist in 1997. At the time, he was a young, starstruck fan.
I couldn’t bring myself to speak to him. I saw him driving a bright yellow Conquest, parked across from the taxi stand. I watched from the parking lot, my heart pounding, on a Saturday afternoon. Growing up in Oneida without a TV, the radio was our window to the world of music. Ras Sheehama, along with the late Jackson Kaujeua, was the voice that filled our homes,” he said.
He added that their next meeting would be at the Warehouse Theatre, with Jackson Kaujeua Jr. and Josie.
From the moment I arrived, I was treated with warmth and respect. Ras Sheehama spoke words of encouragement that I can’t fully recount tonight; there were just too many, and each one meant the world. That generosity, that kindness, left a lasting impression,” he said.
He added, “Today, as we mourn his passing, my heart goes out to his family and to the entire Namibian nation that cherished him. Rest in peace, big brother. Your music, your legacy, and your spirit will live on, and we will meet again.”
Shinana Nghixulifa, vice chairperson of the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (NASCAM), highlighted the importance of appreciating artists while they are still with us.
“Namibian musicians suffer because we do not appreciate them enough. We celebrate them only after they are gone. Ras deserved better, and we must do better,” he said.
Nghixulifa mentioned that NASCAM, which previously offered N$3 000 in funeral benefits, has now increased the amount to N$15 000.
He announced that the families of Ras Sheehama and Jackson Kaujeua Jr. will be the first to benefit from this new initiative.