Dalene Kooper 

LÜDERITZ – The Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company last week inaugurated conference venues in honour of three distinguished figures, whose contributions to Namibia’s liberation struggle, local governance and public service have left a legacy. 

The company officially recognised anti-colonial leader Goab Cornelius Fredericks, former Lüderitz mayor Susan Harris and late board member Seloma Julius by naming facilities at the transformed Lüderitz Old Power Station conference centre in their honour. 

Speaking during the ceremony, the Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company (LWDC) CEO Fluksman Samuehl said the recognition was aimed at preserving the legacy of individuals who helped shape Namibia’s development journey. 

“Like any organisation, things do not happen by themselves but are made to happen by visionaries and great thinkers. Our organisation did not evolve without history and the movers and shakers behind such history,” he said. 

He described the three honourees as leaders who served their communities with distinction and persevered in advancing the interests of the people. 

Reflecting on Fredericks’ legacy, Samuehl said the anti-colonial leader symbolised resilience and sacrifice during Namibia’s struggle against German colonial rule. 

“The generation of Goab Cornelius Fredericks represents a generation that endured so much hardship and suffering, but persevered and fought the German colonial project – whatever the cost,” he stated. 

He added that the Lüderitz Waterfront leadership continues to draw inspiration from Fredericks’ courage and determination. 

Paying tribute to Harris, Samuehl described her as a pioneer whose contributions extended beyond politics and local government. 

He said Harris served as Lüderitz’s first mayor after independence from 1992 to 1997, and championed people-centred development in the harbour town. 

“History shall always remember her as the first resident mayor of Lüderitz in post-independence democracy. She served with passion and promoted people-centred development,” he said. 

He proposed naming a street after the first mayor of Lüderitz. 

Turning to Julius, Samuehl praised her commitment and professionalism during her tenure as an LWDC board member. 

“Ms Seloma Julius always wanted the Lüderitz Waterfront to succeed and become a high-impact state-owned enterprise,” he said. 

He further credited Julius and the board for providing the support necessary to implement major development projects. 

Fluksman assured the families of the three honourees that the LWDC would continue to honour their legacy. 

Mayor of Luderitz, Brigitte Fredericks, in her remarks, said that the naming of venues signifies more than the permanent inscription of their names, sacrifice and legacy into the history and geography of our nation. 

“The greatest way to honour them is not only through the naming of a venue, but through the tangible implementation of good governance, equality, justice and service to our people,” Fredericks said. -dkooper@nepc.com.na