The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) has described late founding president Sam Nujoma as a transformative leader who helped elevate the sport of rugby in the country. 

At a press conference yesterday to pay tribute to the late president, who passed away on Saturday, 8 February 2025, NRU vice president Johan Diergaardt said in their tribute letter that the late founding president was instrumental in fighting for the country’s independence, which led to mass participation in sport. He further hailed Namibia’s first president, stating that under his leadership, sport in the country, particularly rugby, flourished. 

“Dr Nujoma was not only a pivotal figure in the fight for Namibia’s independence, but also an architect of a nation defined by its diversity, inclusivity and spirit of resilience. 

In the world of sport, more specifically rugby, Nujoma’s legacy reminds us of the transformative power of teamwork and community,” Diergaardt said. 

“Under his leadership, we saw rugby flourish as an avenue for nurturing talent, promoting discipline and championing the spirit of fair play values that he held dear throughout his life,” he added. 

The former Unam head coach also commended the late president’s vision of using sport as a critical tool to fight crime and other social ills, which had a massive impact on modern-day Namibia. 

“His vision extended beyond the political arena, as he understood the critical role sport could play in our society. He understood that sport wasn’t just a recreational tool, but a way of expression. The late president understood that sport played a huge role in creating jobs, and instilling discipline within Namibian children,” he said.