The Bank of Namibia (BoN) yesterday unveiled a N$60 commemorative banknote to honour the late president Hage Geingob.
The launch of the banknote forms part of the central bank’s proud tradition of issuing high-quality currency that the public and the region trusts and holds in high regard. The BoN decided to issue a N$60 denomination to represent Geingob’s 60 years of selfless service to Namibia. From his time in exile, his return, to his leadership in an independent Namibia, he devoted some six decades to serving his country.
The commemorative note is, therefore, a tribute to Geingob’s remarkable commitment and leadership through the years.
At yesterday’s launch, BoN governor Johannes !Gawaxab expressed pride in the new note, saying it represents much more than just currency and instead represents a symbol of history, one that reflects Geingob’s tireless dedication and pivotal role in shaping the nation.
“This banknote is not just a way to honour Geingob, but to acknowledge the incredible journey he has taken and the sacrifices made in the service of Namibia,” he said.
He added that upon release, the N$60 commemorative banknote will serve as legal tender and a cherished collector’s item.
It will co-circulate with all other Namibian banknotes when it officially comes into circulation later this month, further embedding its significance into the nation’s daily transactions.
“Beyond this commemorative banknote, the enduring legacy of our late president will transcend generations. Among his many achievements, he spearheaded the establishment of the Welwitschia Fund, Namibia’s sovereign wealth fund administered by the BoN on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, ensuring the wealth derived from our nation’s natural resources is preserved and utilised for the prosperity of future generations,” he said. The fund now stands at N$460 million, compared to the N$270 million invested in 2022.
!Gawaxab added: “He (Geingob) was a man who did not merely lead. He inspired and transformed. He dared to dream beyond the possible, challenged conventional thinking, and worked tirelessly to ensure the Namibia he left behind was greater than the one he inherited. His unwavering belief in an inclusive, democratic Namibia was not just a vision. It was a movement – a call to action, a legacy of courage and conviction”.
President Nangolo Mbumba was the keynote speaker at the unveiling.
He noted that to honour Geingob and to uphold his vision of inclusivity, all Namibians should continue developing Namibia.
“This is the best way to honour those leaders who have left us. Let us continue to honour Geingob,” said Mbumba.
Vice President and president-elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah noted that some people want to keep the Geingob note as a collectors’ item while others are encouraging spending it.
“I believe you can have other notes to give away, but I would suggest keeping the Hage banknote close to you,” she said.
Photo: Heather Erdmann