Namibians living in the United States of America (USA) have paid tribute to Founding President Sam Nujoma.
They said even in the diaspora, they are bound by the unwavering bond of a shared Namibian identity, carrying forward his ideals.
An official memorial service in honour of Nujoma was held by the Namibian Mission in the US on Monday at Allen Chapel AME Church in Washington DC, led by ambassador Margaret Mensah-Williams.
Nujoma died at 95 years of age on 8 February 2025 in a hospital in Windhoek.
Delivering a tribute on behalf of the Namibian community, Josephine Shikongo-Asino said Namibians in the American diaspora continue to foster the spirit of togetherness.
This ensures that the values of peace, unity and mutual respect remain at the heart of the community in the world.
“His vision lives on in that we support one another, celebrate our differences, and work towards the collective good of Namibia as strong, united people. We, the Namibians, stand committed to continue his work.
We will strive to be advocates of prosperity of our beloved country, supporting efforts that further his vision of a peaceful and thriving Namibia,” she said.
Shikongo-Asino said Nujoma’s legacy will continue to be a guiding light for Namibia’s collective future, inspiring everyone to contribute to the development and protection of Namibia’s independence, its institutions and its people.
“As we mourn, we also celebrate the life of a man whose leadership will be remembered not just for the foundation of our independence, but as testament of the power of resilience and the triumph of the human spirit,” she said.
Reading the obituary, Mensah-Williams said Nujoma left behind a proud and free Namibia, which its people will carry forward with honour and determination.
“We also know that ‘united we stand; divided we fall’.
So, let us never divide ourselves through race, tribe, ethnicity or through where we come from. Let us continue because Tatekulu Nujoma’s light will shine forever through our hearts and his deeds,” she said.
-Nampa