ONGWEDIVA – Namibians have expressed gratitude to the government for the regional State memorial services held for Founding President Sam Nujoma in seven regions.
Since last Thursday, Nujoma’s memorial for Omusati and Kunene was held at his parents’ homestead at Etunda in the Omusati region.
The other regional State memorial services were held in Ohangwena, Kavango West, Zambezi, Otjozondjupa, Erongo and Karas.
Along the roads were large groups of learners, pensioners and public members singing solidarity songs while waving their hands to the hearse.
Many people were brought to tears as they witnessed the gun carrier carrying the remains passing by.
Different speakers described Nujoma as a fearless man who did not discriminate against anyone.
On the first day, the procession from Ondangwa along the Ongwediva-Oshakati road was fast, leaving many without an opportunity to witness the moment.
However, the following day, when the remains proceeded to Outapi, Oshikuku, Omungwelume, Onhuno and eventually Eenhana, the procession moved slower, allowing residents to witness the casket and wave their goodbyes to the founding president.
Those who spoke to New Era said they appreciated the government’s decision to allow Nujoma’s remains to rest overnight in various regions, where people had the opportunity to view the casket.
Some people travelled long distances to pay their tributes to Nujoma. Pensioners had to save their last coins for transport fare to be part of the memorial services.
A 13-year-old boy, John Kakuwa, travelled 200 km from Divundu to Rundu to bid farewell.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of the Namibia Police Force Joseph Shikongo thanked the Namibians, including motorists, for their behaviour during the mourning period.
“No car accidents have been reported. The police did a good job ensuring that laws and regulations were followed,” he added.
“I am impressed by Namibians for their behaviour. Even crimes have decreased during the mourning period,” he stated.
Nujoma will be buried tomorrow at the Heroes’ Acre in Windhoek.
-fhamalwa@nepc.com.na