President Hage Geingob has conferred a state funeral on the former Health Director of the Oshana Region, Naftali Hamata. 

The Secretary to the Cabinet, Dr. George Simataa, confirmed this to nbc News.

Dr. Hamata died last week, aged 78.

The renowned medical doctor served in various portfolios after independence, including those of special advisor, medical superintendent, and regional health director, to name but a few.

During the liberation struggle, he treated wounded PLAN fighters and provided health care at Onamishu village in the Ohangwena region.

With the conferment of the state funeral on the late Hamata, the government would cater for funeral needs such as the casket, tombstone, wreaths, and grave preparation should the burial take place at national sites such as Eenhana Shrine, Omugulugwombashe, or the Heroes Acre in Windhoek.

The late Dr. Hamata's family is yet to decide on the burial site.