Namibia Bids Farewell to ‘Founding Father’ Sam Nujoma in State Funeral

Namibia honors its first president and independence hero, Sam Nujoma, with a state funeral. Leaders and citizens pay tribute to his legacy.

Namibia’s founding president, Sam Nujoma, who led the nation to independence from apartheid-era South Africa, was interred at Heroes Acre cemetery on Saturday.

The gathering was attended by his widow, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and both past and present African leaders.

They portrayed Nujoma as an iconic African figure, a principled man who staunchly defended the continent against colonialism.

“On these sacred grounds rests the final place for Namibia’s esteemed heroes and heroines. A most distinguished son of the soil, a giant among leaders, and a revolutionary icon,” stated current President Nangolo Mbumba.

Mourners from across the country assembled early in the morning at Heroes Acre in Windhoek, the capital, to honor Nujoma, who passed away two weeks ago at 95.

Often referred to as the “founding father” of Namibia, he ascended from a childhood spent herding cattle to spearheading the nation’s fight for independence against apartheid-era South Africa.

He was regarded as the final representative of a generation of leaders who led anti-colonial movements and championed freedom throughout the continent.

“He embodies the struggle for African liberation, particularly in Namibia. In the 1950s, he was among the few who rose against apartheid and racial discrimination,” said Pendukeni Ithana, vice-chairperson of the Sam Nujoma Foundation.

Nujoma, who served as president for three terms from 1990 to 2005, was widely praised for bringing peace and stability to Namibia.

Namibia observed a 21-day mourning period, with flags flown at half-staff. Nujoma’s body was honored through a nationwide farewell tour as his remains were transported to seven regions, including his village homestead of Etunda in Okahao.

As the casket, adorned with the Namibian flag, was lowered into its resting place, a 21-gun salute resonated in tribute while aircraft from the Namibian Air Force soared overhead.