A nation mourns as Namibia held a memorial service in honour of the late Founding President, Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, on Saturday, June 15th, 2020. The service was a gathering of heartfelt tributes, memories, and reflections on the life and legacy of the man who led the country to independence and shaped its future.
Dr Nujoma, fondly known as the ‘father of the nation’, passed away on May 16th, at the age of 91. His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of Namibians and the world at large. His tireless efforts and unwavering commitment towards the liberation of Namibia will forever be remembered and cherished.
The memorial service, held at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek, was attended by thousands of people, including government officials, foreign leaders, and ordinary citizens. The stadium, adorned with the national flag and posters of the late leader, was filled with a sombre yet hopeful atmosphere.
President Hage Geingob, in his eulogy, described Dr Nujoma as a visionary and a towering figure in the country’s history. He said, “Today, we gather to pay our respects to a man who dedicated his entire life to the fight for our independence and the development of our country.”
The President also highlighted the significant role Dr Nujoma played in the country’s transition from colonialism to democracy. He said, “Dr Nujoma’s leadership and courage was instrumental in leading Namibia towards freedom and democracy. He will forever be remembered as the architect of an independent and unified Namibia.”
The service was also a time for personal tributes from family and friends who shared their memories of the late leader. His daughter, Ida Nujoma, spoke fondly of her father, saying he was a man of the people who always put the needs of his country first. She said, “He was a loving father, a devoted grandfather, and a revolutionary leader. His love for Namibia and its people was evident in everything he did.”
Many foreign leaders also attended the service, including Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa and South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa. President Mnangagwa, in his speech, referred to Dr Nujoma as a brother and a comrade who fought tirelessly for the liberation of Africa. He said, “The passing of Dr Nujoma is a loss not only for Namibia but for the entire African continent. He was a man of great wisdom and a fearless leader who inspired many in the fight against colonialism.”
The memorial service also saw several cultural performances, including traditional dances and songs, paying homage to the late leader. A minute of silence was observed, and the national anthem was sung to honour the life of Dr Nujoma and his service to the country.
As the memorial service came to an end, President Geingob declared a national day of mourning and urged Namibians to honour Dr Nujoma’s legacy by continuing the work he started. He said, “We must all strive to live up to the ideals and principles of our Founding Father. Let us continue to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous Namibia in his honour.”
The late Dr Nujoma will be laid to rest at his ancestral home in Ongandjera, in the traditional burial ceremony of ‘Okukula’, meaning ‘returning home’. This is a fitting tribute to a man who was deeply rooted in his culture and never forgot his roots.
The memorial service was a poignant reminder of the impact Dr Nujoma had on the country and its people. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of Namibians as they strive to fulfill his vision of a better Namibia for all. As the country lays its founding father to rest, let us all remember his words, “Our freedom was not free, and it should never be taken for granted.”
