OKANDO - Obed Tulinane Emvula, a former Swapo party chief representative to Germany and a past deputy director general of the national broadcaster, was buried in his home village of Okando in the Oshikuku constituency, Omusati region yesterday.
Emvula died on 01 January at the age of 80.
The State burial, attended by former President Hifikepunye Pohamba, Industrialisation and Trade Minister Lucia Iipumbu Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, Education Minister Anna Nghipondoka, was marked by the singing of the national anthem and a 17-gun salute by the Namibian Air Force in his honour.
The burial was also witnessed by Emvula’s family members, regional governors, senior government officials, foreign dignitaries, tribal chiefs and Namibians from all walks of life.
“As a respected leader and diplomat, Comrade Emvula’s efforts in international diplomacy for Namibia’s independence have earned our country the respect and support of the global community,” said President Hage Geingob in a message delivered on his behalf by Nghipondoka. The President said Emvula’s work in this area had been instrumental in securing the international recognition and assistance needed for Namibia to thrive as an independent nation.
Geingob added that after independence, Emvula continued to serve the people of Namibia with distinction in various capacities, contributing to the country’s development and progress.
“His contributions to institutions such as the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and the Public Service Commission exemplify his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our nation, his deep love for our country, and his desire to see it thrive,” he stated. The President added that Emvula’s dedication to fostering a prosperous and improved socio-economic landscape for Namibia has left an enduring legacy that will be remembered with gratitude and respect.
Those who knew Emvula spoke volumes about his life.
Friends, former colleagues and relatives described him as an intellectual, whose contribution to the struggle was immeasurable.
They also described him as a principled intellectual who possessed a great sense of humour. Emvula served Swapo in various capacities in countries including the United States, Zambia, and Algeria.
After his return from exile in 1989, he was appointed to the Public Service Commission in 1997 and served on the board of the Roads Authority. He was deputy director general of the NBC from 1990 to 1994.