Namibia’s business community continues to mourn the untimely passing of President Hage Geingob. 

Hearing about the unexpected passing of Geingob, Nico Badenhorst, president of the Construction Industries Federation (CIF) expressed sincere condolences to former First Lady, Monica Geingos, the children, entire family and to the entire Namibian nation: “We, the CIF and the construction industry would like to pay our respects to His Excellency, Hage Geingob. He steered Namibia through difficult economic times and was relentless in including everyone in the Namibian House and maintaining peace in our country. His emphasis on democratic principles, for better or worse, must be respected. He built an exemplary foundation that demanded hard work and delivery. With continued focus and perseverance, we Namibians are strong and brave to materialise the economic opportunities that have been created under his leadership”. 

On behalf of CIF members and the construction industry, Badenhorst commended the smooth transition to the swearing in of President Nangolo Mbumba, calling it bravery in trying times. The CIF president also applauded the country’s leadership for remaining focussed and for ensuring continuity. He further wished President Nangolo Mbumba great success in leading the nation and congratulated Netumbo Nandi- Ndaitwah on her appointment as Vice President. 

“It is the responsibility of every Namibian to continue to build on the legacy of peace and stability, which can be achieved through focussed efforts, collaboration and a bravery to forge forward for economic success in the interest of every Namibian,” said Badenhorst. 

Also, the Namibian Employers Federation (NEF) on behalf of its members and employers at large, expressed their condolences.

President of the NEF, Elias Shikongo said: “We are truly shocked. Although we had been informed that His Excellency, Hage Geingob was suffering from a severe illness, we had hoped that he was on the way to full recovery. Indeed, we are very moved and deeply saddened about his passing on. Our deepest sympathies go out to Mrs Monica Geingos, the entire family and all our fellow Namibians”. 

Shikongo continued: “We mourn the loss of a leader who was at the forefront of sculpturing our democracy. He not only was the chairperson of the committee that drafted our country’s constitution but also continuously emphasised the separation of power between the Executive, the Legislative and the Judicial branch of our government. Namibia today can still proudly present itself as a peaceful and stable country. Democracy, stability, functioning systems and procedures, freedom of the press – these are all prerequisites for a vast country with a small population, like ours, to attract investments. This is part of Dr Geingob’s legacy. He took the lead in establishing the right conditions for investment and he took it upon himself to personally create linkages and networks and to meet international investors, at home and abroad”. 

The head of the NEF added that Namibia is a constitutional democracy due to the persistence and resilience of Geingob. Shikongo stated this ensures Namibians and as employers that peace and calmness will prevail, to deliberate and contribute to the domestic economy.

“We also want to express our sincere gratitude for the leadership of our Cabinet for ensuring that the change in leadership ran smoothly and that Namibia is not without a captain. We are indeed grateful that His Excellency, Nangolo Mbumba, so gracefully has accepted the presidency of Namibia, to build on the work of his predecessors until Namibia’s next elections,” Shikongo continued. 

Also expressing condolences was the Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN), through its general secretary George Ampweya. 

“The loss of a leader leaves a void in our hearts, and we share in the collective grief as a nation as we mourn the departure of a remarkable statesman. The President’s unwavering commitment to our independence, dedication to the welfare of its citizens, and visionary leadership will forever be remembered,” Ampweya stated. 

He further noted that as a union, the MUN recognises the profound impact of Geingob’s policies and initiatives in advancing the rights and wellbeing of the working class. 

“His legacy of advocating for labour rights and social justice has left an indelible mark on our society. 

During this time of mourning, we stand in solidarity with the Namibian nation and his family in offering our sincere support and sympathy to all those affected by this profound loss. The President’s legacy of leadership and service will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the values of unity, compassion, and progress that he embodied. We express our deepest sympathy to the friends, comrades and colleagues of the late President. May the memories of his remarkable leadership and profound impact bring comfort and solace during this difficult time,” Ampweya added.  – ebrandt@nepc.com.na