Last night, the first official memorial service for Dr. Sam Nujoma took place at his home in Windhoek. Family, friends, and dignitaries gathered to honor his remarkable life and contributions to Namibia.
The service highlighted the experiences of veterans, taking the audience on a nostalgic journey through Namibia's history.
Prof. Peter Katjavivi, Speaker of the National Assembly, described Dr. Nujoma as a beacon of hope and a pivotal figure in the fight for independence.
He emphasized Nujoma's commitment to education and extended condolences on behalf of the National Assembly and his family.
"Dr. Nujoma was not only a notable figure but also a symbol of hope and unity for the people of Namibia. He stood for a united country that took pride in its roots and worked tirelessly to achieve that vision. His life was dedicated to the principles of democracy, justice, and equality, paving the way for significant progress and unity within our nation. He understood that without a united front, nothing could be achieved productively."
Ben Amathila, a veteran of Swapo and former member of parliament and Cabinet, shared his memories of meeting Dr. Nujoma in 1946. He recounted the challenges Nujoma faced while fighting against apartheid, praising his resilience and determination in the quest for Namibia’s freedom.
"You saw him leave his country after the events in Katutura. They had to flee our motherland, sleeping in bushes and unknown places. He envisioned a future where Namibians could organize themselves as their own liberators. He wanted everyone to join the struggle and become fully engaged. Nujoma was always hopeful."
David Nuyoma, Dr. Nujoma's nephew, expressed gratitude to the nation and the international community for their support. He described his uncle as a father figure to both his family and the nation, highlighting Nujoma's dedication to pan-Africanism and global cooperation.
"The late founding president and father of the Namibian nation was a leader for Namibia, a pan-African, and an internationalist. Your messages have somewhat eased the heavy burden of his passing, but for Tatekulu, we say he is not dead; he is merely asleep and resting. Revolutionaries never die; their strength lives on, now and forever. Let us find solace in the fact that Tatekulu was not only our father and our honor but the father of all Namibia and all of us."
The service was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Vice President and President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, former First Lady Monica Geingos, and ǂNükhoen Gaob, Justus ||Garoeb.
In memory of the founding president, services will be held daily at his residence at 6 PM.