NKURENKURU – Kavango West governor Sirkka Ausiku praised Founding President Sam Nujoma’s contributions to rural development and education during a memorial service held at Nkurenkuru on Tuesday. The service in honour of Nujoma, was held under the theme ‘Celebrating a Revolutionary, Honouring an African Icon.’
She said Nujoma encouraged Namibians to prioritise education as he was passionate about education.
“We all know education is the greatest equaliser. Our region continues to perform well in both Ordinary and AS level examinations.
The region is determined to continue promoting and improving our education,” she said.
She also spoke of Nujoma’s focus on agriculture and food security, noting his frequent visits to the region to engage traditional authorities about land for development, particularly establishing green schemes.
“He used to visit our region frequently to engage traditional authorities to make land available for development, specifically to set up green schemes, and encouraged the community to produce food.
Even during his retirement, he continued visiting and encouraging communities to produce food because he believed a nation that cannot feed itself, cannot be respected. We will continue to promote agriculture programmes,” said Ausiku.
Meanwhile, Swapo coordinator for Kavango West Elina Diparo commended Nujoma’s role in the formation of Swapo on 19 April 1960, and his work leading to Namibia’s independence. “When Nujoma formed Swapo during the liberation struggle, he made the decision to prepare Namibia for independence. He worked tirelessly and stood firm to liberate our beloved country,” she said.
Shambyu Traditionary Authority representative Sebastian Kantema described the Founding President as an icon of hope, courage and strength, saying he was a servant leader who selflessly put other people first.
He said Nujoma was a visionary leader who recognised the role traditional authorities play in preserving culture.
“Under his leadership, we can say with pride that traditional authorities were accorded the respect they deserve,” said Kantema.
-Nampa