WINDHOEK – Namibian Ambassador to Austria, Raphael Nakare Dinyando died yesterday morning  in that country after a long battle with cancer.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Kavango Regional Governor Dr Samuel Mbambo confirmed Dinyando’s death to New Era yesterday late afternoon.

Mbambo however could not give an official message of condolence as yet.

“I am on the way to Mukwe constituency to go and tell the family. I cannot give an official message of condolence now. I will be able to do so once I tell the family members,” said Mbambo.

Foreign Affairs Deputy Director for Information and Research Marbeline Mwashekele said: “I heard something like that, but our bilateral division is busy compiling a statement in that respect.”

Dinyando who was also a former Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology was appointed as Ambassador to Austria by President Hifikepunye in August 2010.

Ironically his death coincided with the commissioning of new ambassadors by President Pohamba yesterday, of which one of them is Simon Maruta who was appointed to fill Dinyando’s position in Austria.

Dinyando was recalled from the mission, however it is not yet clear whether his recall had anything to do with his ailing health.

According to sources close to the family, Dinyando was expected to return home on August 30 but could not do so due to the seriousness of his health until his untimely death yesterday morning.

By Albertina Nakale