Mulisa Simiyasa
GROOTFONTEIN – Elizabeth Asino Joseph, a niece of late Founding President Sam Nujoma, on Monday described him as a constellation of kindness, charm and guidance.
“Tatekulu, as we called him at home, was more than a president. He was a great teacher to us, very generous man, a guiding light and the most charming man I have ever met,” said Joseph whilst speaking on behalf of the Nujoma family at the regional memorial service at the Omulunga Sports Stadium at Grootfontein in the Otjozondjupa region.
She said Nujoma instilled discipline in most of his family members, including grandchildren.
She said Nujoma was an obedient son to his parents.
Joseph added that Nujoma assisted hundreds of Namibians who were sick by taking them to hospital to receive medical treatment at his expense.
“He also assisted many orphans with their education-related needs, many of whom today have become professionals in this country,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Retired Namibian Defence Force military chief Lieutenant General Martin Shali thanked Nujoma for commanding the liberation struggle, which consequently brought independence to Namibia.
“I would like to thank his widow Kovambo Nujoma and his family for looking after this iconic leader of Namibia,” he remarked.
He urged the Namibian people to continue with Nujoma’s legacy by rededicating themselves to the unity of purpose, and bring about the economic development that Nujoma would like to see Namibia prosper in.
Swapo Party Otjozondjupa regional coordinator Immanuel Namaseb said Nujoma will be happy wherever he is, if he sees all Namibians fighting to achieve and maintain peace and stability in the country.
“As Namibians, we can still celebrate by maintaining peace – the legacy of this principled, fearless and selfless Nujoma who liberated Namibia from its political oppression,” said Namaseb.
Nujoma’s eulogy was read here by veteran politician Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana, who serves as vice chairperson of the Sam Nujoma Foundation.
Nujoma’s remains lay in state at the stadium until Tuesday morning when mourners proceeded to the Erongo region for the sixth regional State memorial service.
-Nampa