Maqonda Ndlovu
THE Namibian sporting fraternity has expressed shock and dismay at the passing of President Hage Geingob, who died in the early hours of yesterday morning.
Several prominent sports personalities praised the late Geingob saying he was a great leader who loved sports and always inspired them to compete fairly at international events.
Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service Agnes Tjongarero said Namibia will remember a distinguished sports icon whose profound impact on Namibian sports resonates deeply.
“Serving as a dedicated patron for both the Namibia Football Association (NFA) and Namibia Rugby Union (NRU), he exemplified a passion for sports that went beyond the realm of politics. His recent message of encouragement to the Brave Warriors, even from his sick bed, highlighted his unwavering support and dedication to the athletes he championed. Geingob’s legacy extends beyond sports, encapsulating his steadfast leadership and commitment to guiding Namibia towards greater heights,” Tjongarero said in her tribute.
She said the late leader will forever be remembered as a symbol of inspiration and resilience.
The executive director at the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service, Erastus Haitengela, said he had lost a father, while the ministry and the country lost a strong leader who cared for them.
The Namibia Sports Commission chief administrator, Freddy Mwiya, said the Namibian sports fraternity has lost a beacon of light.
“It is indeed a sad moment for the sports fraternity. President Geingob loved sports, and he dedicated his life to the youth,” Mwiya said.
Meanwhile, a media release from the NFA, said they were saddened by this unfortunate situation that had befalled the nation.
“Following the unexpected passing of His Excellency Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia and patron of the NFA, the association decided to cancel all league matches with immediate effect until further notice. Our sincere condolences to the First Lady Monica Geingos, children, family, relatives, and the entire Namibian nation,” the statement said.
The Women’s Football Department also paid tribute to Geingob, saying they are saddened by the death of the president.
Cricket Namibia also paid tribute to Geingob, saying he was a profound leader and a true advocate for the transformative power of sports.
“Hage Geingob’s unwavering commitment to the belief that sports can unite and inspire was evident in his dedicated support for Cricket Namibia and the entire sports community in our nation. We remember and honour his legacy as a leader who understood the profound impact of sports on the well-being and unity of our people,” a statement said.
The Namibia Rugby Union said Geingob was an integral part of rugby in Namibia, as evidenced by the hosting of the Dr Hage Geingob Cup in 2022 in his honour.
“Namibia rugby has lost its patron, and we will continue to honour the memory of our president,” the statement said.
The Namibia Hockey Union extended its heartfelt condolences to the nation, saying Geingob was a leader who believed in the power of sports to unite, discipline, and inspire.