The Independence Stadium stood solemn yet resolute, as Namibia gathered to pay tribute to its greatest son, Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, the Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation.
A towering figure in Namibia’s liberation struggle and post-independence nation-building, Nujoma’s memorial service was attended by thousands, including heads of state, dignitaries and citizens from all walks of life.
The air was thick with emotion as His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia, Chief Mourner and Commander-in- Chief of the Namibian Defence Force, led the nation in remembering a man whose life embodied resilience, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to freedom.
A leader who defined a nation
Delivering a powerful eulogy, President Mbumba reminded the nation that Nujoma was more than a political leader—he was the architect of an independent Namibia. “Today, we bid farewell to a son of the soil who dedicated his entire life to the liberation of our country and the upliftment of its people.
Nujoma was a revolutionary who fought against colonial oppression with unwavering determination. His voice, once thunderous in the halls of the United Nations, the Organisation of African Unity and the Non-Aligned Movement, now echoes in the hearts of a free people.”
The President further underscored Nujoma’s role in shaping Namibia’s future, not just as a statesman but as a mentor who instilled the values of unity, patriotism and self-reliance in the nation.
A legacy of sacrifice and leadership
Former President Hifikepunye Pohamba paid tribute to his predecessor, reflecting on his unwavering leadership during Namibia’s formative years.
“Comrade Sam Nujoma was a selfless leader who placed the nation before himself. His legacy is written in the history of our country, in the very fabric of our independence. His courage and wisdom led Namibia through war, independence and nation-building. Today, we celebrate a life well-lived in service of the Namibian people.”
A torch passed to the next generation
Vice President and president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, speaking as both a disciple of Nujoma’s leadership and as his successor, vowed to uphold his vision. “Comrade Nujoma taught us the true meaning of leadership— not for personal gain, but for the empowerment of the people.
He showed us that independence was not the end of our journey, but the beginning of building a just, prosperous Namibia. As we move forward, his example will guide us in ensuring Namibia continues to thrive in unity and dignity.”
An opponent who stood for all
In a moment of rare unity, McHenry Venaani, leader of the official opposition in parliament and president of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), delivered a stirring tribute, proving that Nujoma’s influence extended beyond party lines.
“In Namibian politics, there has been no equal to Sam Nujoma. He was peerless,” Venaani declared. He recounted how the founding president once urged him to table a motion in Parliament for the establishment of a desalination plant, demonstrating Nujoma’s deep concern for Namibia’s long-term water security.
“Nujoma was not just a leader for his party. He was a leader for Namibia. He believed in securing water for future generations, and today, his vision is taking shape with the government’s decision to commence with large-scale desalination in Erongo.”
Venaani also reflected on Nujoma’s historic journey into exile, facilitated by the Ovaherero Chiefs’ Council under Chief Hosea Kutako, and paid tribute to Johannes Karuaihe, whose heroic actions helped Nujoma escape from Windhoek in 1960. Ending his speech with words that resonated across the stadium, Venaani quoted Nujoma himself:
“He has come, and he is going the same.” A reference to the late leader’s own words about Samuel Maharero, these parting words reminded the nation that Nujoma’s legacy remains intact—he departs as he came, a giant of history.
His vision becoming reality
One of Nujoma’s lifelong dreams was securing water sustainability for Namibia. Today, that dream is on the brink of realisation.
In 2024, the Namibian Cabinet approved the establishment of a large-scale desalination plant in Erongo, which will produce 20 million cubic metres of fresh water annually.
This project, aimed at supporting coastal towns, industries and future regional supply, marks the fulfilment of Nujoma’s long-held vision.
“Water is life, and our father of the nation understood this profoundly,” said President Mbumba. “As we break ground on this monumental project, we do so knowing that we are carrying forward his mission— securing Namibia’s future.”
Honouring his legacy
As the sun set over Independence Stadium, a solemn but resolute silence filled the air. The people of Namibia, young and old, stood as one—a people united in mourning, but also in gratitude.
Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma may have left this world, but his legacy lives on. In the continued fight for economic freedom, in the pursuit of water security and the unwavering commitment to nation-building, his spirit remains a guiding force. As Namibia moves forward, we must carry his words in our hearts:
“A people united, striving to achieve a common good for all members of society, will always emerge victorious.” Rest in Power, Father of the Namibian Nation.
Lot Ndamanomhata is graduate of Public Management, Journalism and Communication. This article reflects his views and write he entirely in his personal capacity.