WINDHOEK – The acting Chief of the Ovaherero Tradition Authority (OTA) Tumbee Tjombe died in the early hours of yesterday morning in Windhoek Central Hospital.
His demise came two months after the death of Paramount Chief Kuaima Riruako and a week after the death of Chief Uakutjo Kambazembi of the Kambazembi Royal House.
On Thursday scores of mourners gathered at the Ovaherero Red Flag Commando No 2 Hall in Katutura at the corner of Ephraim Hei and Clemence Kapuuo streets to mourn him.
Tjombe (67) an Omumbanderu who hails from Rietfotein (Otjombinde) in Omaheke Region is survived by his wife Kaepere and nine children from a previous relationship.
Tjombe took over the role of chieftainship of the Ovambanderu people in Otjombinde after the death of Chief Eliphas Tjingaete 1993.
He was later chosen by the late Chief Riruako to act on his behalf, as the traditional authority Act prohibits political office-bearers to double up as head of a traditional community.
In a statement yesterday, Senior Councillor Tjipene Keja said the OTA had learnt with deep shock, sadness and disbelief of the passing on of the acting chief.
He said until final funeral arrangements are made mourners are expected to gather at the commando.
Meanwhile, Chief Uakutjo Kambazembi of the Kambazembi Royal House will be buried next week Sunday in Otjozondjupa Region where his uncle Chief Tuvahi David Kambazembi was buried, family spokesperson Zed Ngavirue said on Thursday.
Kambazembi died last week Thursday after succumbing to kidney failure, a condition he had for some time.
By Kuzeeko Tjitemisa