President Hage Geingob has hailed the late Colonel (Retired) Filipus Amutenya Nandenga (‘Commander Zulu’), who passed away a fortnight ago, as an example of unwavering commitment, formidable bravery and unyielding patriotism.
Geingob said this in a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice President Nangolo Mbumba at Nandenga’s funeral at the Eenhana memorial shrine.
Nandenga, who was conferred a state funeral by Geingob, passed away on 11 April.
Geingob said in his life, “Comrade Nandenga found something that was worth dying for, and that is why today, as we accompany him one last time and say our goodbyes, we salute this gallant son of the soil for having lived a life worthy of a hero”.
He added that Nandenga will remain an embodiment of the country’s struggle for independence and its ultimate victory over the tyrannical forces of the apartheid regime.
Geingob said in the years he served the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan) and later the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), Nandenga concentrated on the task of defending Namibia, and he did so exceedingly well.
“It has been said that a nation reveals its character by those it honours. As a nation birthed from struggle, we shall always give the greatest honour to those who have dedicated their lives to the emancipation of their compatriots,” the President stated, adding that this defines the character of the people of Namibia.
“As we bid farewell to this valiant fighter, let us be inspired by his story of bravery and sacrifice so that we may adopt the same zeal and passion in our respective fields and professions, thereby safeguarding the principles of freedom, justice and equality which Comrade Nandenga fought for,” said the Head of State.
He told the late Nandenga’s wife, Valombweleni, and the children that as a country, Namibia will never forget Nandenga’s courage, love of country, and service.
“He has run a flawless race. Now, he can receive his crown of victory,” Geingob said.