EENHANA – Eenhana town in Ohangwena region became the focal point of national mourning as Namibians from far and wide converged to pay last respects to the late Founding President, Sam Nujoma.

As early as 06h00 on Friday, thousands of people had already lined the roads, from Okahao to Eenhana, waiting patiently to have a glimpse of the hearse carrying Nujoma’s body as it made its way through various towns leading to Eenhana.

The atmosphere was one of solemn reverence, with people of all ages and backgrounds united in their grief and gratitude.

Many recalled Nujoma’s pivotal role in Namibia’s liberation struggle and his unwavering commitment to building a free and prosperous nation. 

His leadership, they said, inspired a generation and paved the way for a brighter future for all Namibians.
Friday’s memorial service at Eenhana was expected to be a deeply moving occasion, with tributes from government officials, family members and ordinary citizens who were touched by Nujoma’s life and legacy.

Namibians remember Nujoma not only as a liberation struggle leader but also as a symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Namibian people.

His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy of liberation and nation-building will continue to inspire generations to come.

This also saw people travelling from as far as Okongo on Friday to pay respects to the Namibian icon who shaped the Namibian house.

Erastus Andreas, (61), a resident of Oupili village and a former informer for the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan), paid N$60 to ensure he attended the memorial service for Nujoma, a man who liberated Namibia from the hands of the brutal oppressors.

Andreas said Namibia indeed has lost a giant, a true hero of the liberation struggle and a people’s leader who put Namibians first.

“When I heard about the memorial service in his honour coming to the region, I prepared myself to make sure I came to pay my respect to a great man,” he said.

He added that Nujoma will be remembered for his selfless act to liberate Namibia.
Meanwhile, pupils and teachers of David Shingo Combined School gathered along the road to pay tribute to Nujoma as his hearse passed.

“We are enjoying the fruits of independence despite his youthful suffering. He was blessed to live many years,” said the principal of David Shingo Combined School, Hanna Hashipala.

Hashipala said they are saddened by the passing of Nujoma but are equally grateful for the legacy he built and the life he lived.

Petrina Nghinomwami travelled 40 kilometres from Oshikunde village in the Ohangwena’s Okongo Constituency to Eenhana on Friday.

She said she really wanted to come to Eenhana to pay tribute to Nujoma, who brought Namibia independence.

Nghinomwami said she was born during the liberation struggle, and as a result, she is entitled to commemorate the life of Nujoma, who brought independence to Namibia.

“The freedom we are enjoying today is because of Nujoma’s energy,” she added. -Nampa