The Namibian sporting fraternity has expressed shock and sadness at the passing of the Founding Father Sam Nujoma.

He died in the early hours of Saturday morning at the age of 95.

Nujoma served as Namibia’s first president from 1990 to 2005.

He died at a Windhoek hospital. 

He was among the last remaining African revolutionaries of his era.

Various prominent figures in the Namibian sport fraternity paid tribute to Nujoma.

They described him as a selfless leader, who was passionate about sport development and encouraged many to compete at the highest level. Renowned boxing promoter and award-winning coach Nestor Tobias described the late president as a caring leader, who was deeply committed to the well-being of his people.

“Sam Shafishuna Nujoma was a selfless leader, who dedicated his life to the betterment of his people. He was a man of compassion and generosity – always ensuring that those around him were taken care of. 

“Even when occupied with national duties, he always made time to reach out and listen whenever I called his office. He graciously accepted our courtesy visits. In 2003, he became the patron of the MTC Nestor Sunshine Boxing Academy, “Tobias said.

He added that Nujoma will forever be remembered as a symbol of inspiration and resilience. 

“He regularly invited my boxers to State House, offering them support and encouragement to succeed. His passing is a great loss for Namibia, Africa and the world at large,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Namibia Football Association (NFA) expressed deep sorrow over Nujoma’s passing. 

“The NFA family is deeply saddened by the passing of our founding president and father of the nation. 

“Nujoma led the revolution that gained Namibia’s independence, paving the way for our country’s membership in Fifa. As a result, Namibian football continues to thrive on the international stage,” NFA said in a statement. 

Former world champion Harry Simon expressed his condolences to the government while praising Nujoma as a remarkable leader. 

“He was a great leader, and we were blessed to have him for so many years. He opened countless doors for Namibian sport and always looked out for everyone. He supported every event I attended and was a huge source of motivation for us growing up. I hope his family finds comfort and peace during these difficult times,” he said. 

Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) on their Facebook page described the late Nujoma as a visionary leader, who brought the nation together and believed in youth empowerment.  

“Nujoma was a visionary leader, whose dedication to Namibia’s independence, unity and progress left a legacy. His belief in youth empowerment and sport development inspired many, including the rugby community. We stand in solidarity with the Nujoma family and the nation during this time of mourning. His legacy will continue to inspire generations,” NRU wrote. 

Cricket Namibia (CN) praised the late president on his contribution to the development of sport in the country and paving the way for all federations to gain international recognition.  

“It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our founding father, Nujoma, the first president of the Republic of Namibia. His dedication, sacrifice and visionary leadership paved the way for the freedom and independence we cherish today,” wrote CN on their Facebook page. 

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na