The northern traditional authorities’ chairperson, Ndilimani Herman Iipumbu, has hailed president Hage Geingob as a liberation struggle icon, an experienced leader who did not discriminate and who united people, as well as a peacekeeper and advisor.

He was speaking during the special regional memorial service held at the Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre in the Oshana region on Sunday.

According to Iipumbu, Geingob played a pivotal role as he implemented land rights and empowered traditional authority leaders to handle land-related issues. He said they would report directly to him and always get feedback immediately.

“He addressed us at our annual meetings, encouraged us to serve the community and work very hard,” he said.

He added that previously during national events, different cultural groups would perform, but Geingob decided to form one cultural group to perform during events to avoid tribalism.

Iipumbu indicated that during president Geingob’s term there were challenges such as drought, however, he overcame these challenges. He said he also fought against criminal activities and ensured that all Namibians were provided with food during drought.

Moreover, Iipumbu said during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Geingob made sure that people were provided with face masks and sanitiser and this resulted in reducing the spread of the virus.

“The last time we saw Geingob on TV and heard his voice on radio was when he informed the nation that he is going for treatment and coming back so that we continue improving the country. May his legacy and good work continue until the fifth and sixth generations,” said Iipumbu.

-Nampa