Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has described the late liberation struggle veteran Kanana Hishoono as one of Namibia’s most cherished and celebrated liberation struggle icons. 

Ngurare conveyed a message of condolences in a statement yesterday. Ngurare said that Hishoono’s legacy will never be forgotten.

Hishoono (89) died last week.

He is survived by his wife and eight children.

“On Wednesday, a giant fell. A reliable source of wisdom and guidance, especially for the youth, has been silenced,” Ngurare said.

He added that Hishoono’s soft-spoken nature, patience, and foresight set him apart as an extraordinary leader.

Reflecting on his time as Secretary of the Swapo Party Youth League, Ngurare said he had the privilege of working closely with Hishoono, who served as Secretary of the Swapo Party Elders’ Council.

“Hishoono was deeply passionate about the youth and frequently shared lessons from his life and the liberation struggle, always emphasising loyalty, vigilance, and adherence to Swapo principles,” Ngurare recalled.

The Prime Minister further described Hishoono as a “walking encyclopaedia” of the liberation struggle and Swapo history, whose clarity of ideological purpose and guidance remained invaluable.

“Comrade Hishoono leaves behind a treasure trove of wisdom and rich memories. At 89, we celebrate a remarkable life well lived and the positive impact he had on all of us who were fortunate to learn from him,” he added.

Specifically, Ngurare extended condolences to Hishoono’s wife and the entire family, encouraging them to remain strong during this difficult time.

“The pillar you leaned on for many years is gone, but this dark moment shall pass. Please accept our deepest condolences,” he said.

Hishoono will be buried in Eenhana on Saturday.

A State memorial service will be held tomorrow in his honour, while the family memorial service is taking place today.

On Monday, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conferred the honour of a State funeral on Hishoono.
-fhamalwa@nepc.com.na