President Nangolo Mbumba has described the late Katrina Hanse-Himarwa as a pivotal figure in the nation's quest for freedom who was devoted to the pursuit of national development and accessible education.

In a tribute read by Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa, Mbumba described Hanse-Himarwa as a distinguished servant and a diamond of the south.

"We stand united in grievance but galvanised in the memory of her life of purpose, her 57 years of life were a gift to this nation, and she leaves behind a solid and clear path of duty to country and people for young Namibians to emulate. She began her political journey at a youthful age."

Fighting back tears, Hanse-Himarwa's daughter, Philaney Hanse, said her mother loved her unconditionally.

Hanse-Hirmarwa shared a close friendship with Namibia's Ambassador to the US, Magreth Mensah-Williams, who described her as a southern rose.

Speaker after speaker described how her contributions to educational reform in Namibia will stand the test of time.