ENGELA – Respected agriculturalist and community leader Jacob ‘Omulaule’ Hamutenya was laid to rest at the Engela cemetery in the Ohangwena region on Saturday. The funeral drew a significant number of mourners, reflecting the profound impact he had on his community and the nation at large. Mourners described his passing as having left a deep void, and many described him as selfless, brilliant and a trailblazer. Hamutenya died in a car accident on 2 March near Otjiwarongo. The crash also claimed the lives of 31-year-old Abner Kandjimbi and 41-year-old Ndateelela Shilongo, who succumbed to her injuries in hospital. Both were likewise buried on Saturday. As a police reservist in the Oshana region, Hamutenya was granted an official burial by the Namibian Police.
His contributions to Namibia’s agricultural sector were widely recognised, particularly through his role as the regional manager of the Agro-Marketing and Trade Agency (AMTA) at the Ongwediva Fresh Produce Hub.
He also served as the deputy chairperson of the National Youth Service, demonstrating his dedication to youth empowerment and national development. Affirmative Repositioning movement leader Job Amupanda, who was a close friend and schoolmate, described the deceased as a unique individual and a trailblazer.
“He was a bright star. To follow in his footsteps, you would need someone as brilliant as Hamutenya,” he stated.
Vaino Muvale, fondly known as ‘Tate Mai’, shared how Hamutenya was more than just a friend, but also a brother and a source of unwavering support.
“His kindness, wisdom and infectious laughter uplifted everyone around him. He will be remembered most for his generosity, loyalty and the way he made everyone feel valued and heard. His legacy lives on,” he added. Northern farmer Ileni Nandjato highlighted the huge impact Hamutenya’s passing will have on the agricultural sector.
“Our bridge of opportunity has collapsed. We will always keep his widow and his children in our prayers,” Nandjato said.
During a memorial service held in his honour, Hamutenya’s colleagues at AMTA expressed sorrow over the loss. “Jacob was always seeking practical solutions to empower agricultural producers in the northern regions,” they said.
The NYS board and management called him a dynamic and formidable leader in youth development.
“His passion for empowering young people was evident in every aspect of his work,” they stated.
Lee Garises, a social commentator, also took to social media to pay tribute.
“Jeicob Touffie Omulaule, you were simply ander soort, and the way in which this nation grieves this loss punctuates the degree to which you have been an impact. The ease with which you understood the human condition; there were no long stories, and your word was your word. Your wisdom, compassion, humanity, tolerance, understanding and generosity,” Garises wrote.
Hamutenya is survived by his wife, four children and siblings.