‘The Baobab tree has fallen, but its roots remain’ is the theme for this year’s national tree-planting day in late Founding President Sam Nujoma’s honour.
Yesterday, Namibians from all walks of life, united in their diversity, planted trees across the country in Nujoma’s honour, planting a legacy which will continue to grow in leaps and bounds.
Planting trees, focused dedication, commitment, leadership and recognising Nujoma as an icon and revolutionary leader were central themes which marked his life’s celebration at Heroes’ Acre.
The commemoration marked the first time Nujoma’s life was being celebrated after his passing on 8 February this year at the age of 95.
Yesterday, Nujoma would have been 96.
“This year marks the first anniversary of our founding president’s passing. I am pleased that the government of the Republic of Namibia and the Sam Nujoma Foundation have chosen to honour the 12th of May 2025 as a tree- planting day,” said President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
She was among those who laid wreaths in remembrance of the founding president and the father of the nation.
The gates of Heroes Acre opened early at 07h00, welcoming the public, close family members and government officials who came to celebrate the life of an iconic leader.
Upon the New Era journalists’ arrival at Heroes Acre at precisely 07h22, preparations were well underway to honour the revolutionary leader.
Vehicles arrived steadily, and those delivering plants stood out.
Before the official programme began, the founding first lady and widow Kovambo Nujoma led the national tree- planting ceremony.
This highlighted his lifelong commitment to agriculture, environmental conservation and national development.
She was assisted by her son Utoni Nujoma and her grandson Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma to plant a Baobab tree.
Other trees were planted by the chairperson of the Sam Nujoma Foundation Nahas Angula and Nandi-Ndaitwah, respectively.
Highlighting the significance of the Baobab tree – known as the ‘tree of life’ – Nandi-Ndaitwah said its planting serves as a powerful tribute to resilience and growth.
“This is a fitting tribute to our Founding President, who made enormous sacrifices for Namibia to rise and become a sovereign nation,” The Head of State remarked.
The President called on all Namibians to actively nurture the trees they planted, and expressed gratitude to all citizens who participated in the effort.
Foundation
On behalf of the foundation, Angula reflected on the late leader’s final symbolic act of planting a tree on 4 July 2023 at his homestead in Okahao.
“It remains a powerful symbol of his enduring dedication to sustainability and the empowerment of future generations,” he said.
“Just as the Baobab regenerates through its deep roots, the wisdom and values of Nujoma continue to flourish and inspire future generations,” he remarked.
Angula encouraged citizens to plant indigenous trees such as the Marula, Tamboti, Triba, Baobab and Bokare.
However, tree choices are not limited.
He said the foundation aims to engage young Namibians through social media campaigns that inspire them to plant trees and share their contributions online.
Tributes
Paying tribute on behalf of the Nujoma family, Khomas governor Nujoma described the occasion as a moment of both pride and remembrance.
Presidential press secretary Alfredo Hengari remembered Nujoma’s unwavering dedication to liberating Namibia and its people.
“It is a solemn moment to reflect on everything he has done for the Namibian people – from the determination and commitment during the liberation struggle – to his leadership tenure of 15 years. It was not always about him, but the Namibian people,” he stated.
Presidential advisor Christine Hoebes said the occasion was not only to pay tribute, but to commit to the founding father’s values.
“He was a revolutionary, who always believed that natural resources should be cherished and protected for future generations. Hence, today we are not only paying tribute, but by planting trees, we are committing to his values,” she noted.
Ex-Cabinet minister and Nujoma’s eldest son Utoni remembered his father as a revolutionary leader, and is grateful for what he has done for the Namibian people.
“Although he is no longer with us, we are grateful,” Utoni remarked.
Vice President Lucia Witbooi remembered Nujoma as an iconic leader in the liberation struggle.
In a touching personal tribute, Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun reflected on the lasting impact of the late founding father.
“Your Excellency, Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, today we celebrate the extraordinary life you lived, the indelible legacy you created, and the profound impact you had on so many. Though we cannot raise a glass with you physically, know that your memory is alive in our hearts, your wisdom continues to guide our steps, and your spirit remains a beacon of strength and inspiration”, she said.