The Zambezi region and Namibia at large are mourning the death of Charles Siyauya, a respected leader and former chairperson of the Bukalo Village Council. Siyauya passed away on Monday due to suspected heart complications.
He served as the Namibia Football Association (NFA) secretary general until his passing. He once also served as the Swapo Party Youth League secretary for information and mobilisation.
Katima Mulilo Rural councillor Warden Simushi, described Siyauya as a vibrant professional and politician who worked well with others. After resigning from Katima Mulilo’s University of Namibia Campus, he ventured into business, constructing a lodge at Luhonono before securing a top position at the NFA.
Katima Urban councillor Kennedy Simasiku highlighted Siyauya’s legacy as that of a fearless leader from the 90s Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO). Despite once contesting against him, Simasiku credited Siyauya for his campaign’s design and praised his dedication to Swapo and national development.
“Comrade Siyauya was uncaged and said what needed to be told, sometimes at the cost of his own career, but he remained resolute in his principles and personal opinions,” Simasiku said.
He recalled Siyauya’s generosity, saying, “When I became the Swapo Party candidate in 2021, I went to his office for advice on my campaign. He even provided the design for my campaign poster, based on his Central Committee campaign card.”
Bukalo Village Council CEO Anna Sazita expressed deep sorrow and emphasised Siyauya’s commitment to the village’s progress.
“Siyauya served with integrity and passion, leaving a lasting impact on our community. His contributions to governance and local development have set a strong foundation for future generations,” Sazita said.
Former Bukalo CEO Martin Limbo described Siyauya as a trendsetter in youth politics and a steadfast leader.
“His passing is a great loss to the Zambezi region and Namibia. He helped shape many young leaders, including myself. Along with the late Ignatius Shuaxameni, Elijah Ngurare, John Likando and the late John Mukaya, he was a pillar of youth politics in Namibia,” Limbo said.
Limbo also highlighted Siyauya’s deep passion for soccer and their joint efforts in the Namibia Lives Matter Movement, which successfully fought against BDF aggression on Namibian fishermen and women along the Chobe and Kwando rivers. “Together, we helped bring an end to Botswana’s aggression and maintained peace between the two countries,” Limbo said.
Former Bukalo Village Council chairperson Candy Namatama remembered Siyauya as a hardworking and courageous leader who played a key role in Bukalo’s development, including establishing an open market and assisting vulnerable residents.
“I am deeply touched by his passing. He was a courageous man who focused on addressing issues in the council. My heartfelt condolences go to his family and the Namibian people,” Namatama said.
anakale@nepc.com.na