President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described the late former Chief of the Namibian Defence Force, Retired Lieutenant General Solomon Hawala, as a hero of the liberation struggle, whose legacy will never die.

Dr. Nandi Ndaitwah was speaking during the memorial service of the late military commander, widely known as Jesus, at Ohakweenyanga Village in the Oshana Region.

In her message of condolences as Chief Mourner, President Nandi-Ndaitwah described Hawala as a resilient and decorated freedom fighter whose patriotism inspired many Namibians to fight apartheid and colonialism until the final victory was achieved.

"Comrade Hawala was not only a deputy commander of PLAN and a military leader in independent Namibia. He was a boldly committed freedom fighter, a pillar of strength and a political rock that demonstrated a spirit of bravery, fortitude and selfless leadership." 

Hawala, who was accorded a state funeral, was born on the 19th of August 1935 at Efidilomulunga near Ongwediva.

He joined Swapo in 1962 and went into exile in 1964.

Swapo Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa, in her tribute, praised the late Hawala for his revolutionary spirit.

Shaningwa said his noble deeds, marked by humility, resilience, and an unshakeable commitment to justice and total independence for Namibia, stood out. 

"The late Comrade Hawala's selfless dedication continues to shape our national destiny after the appointment by the late His Excellency Dr Sam Nujoma as the first Army Commander of a unified Namibian Defence Force in 1990."

Hawala was trained in Tanzania, North Korea, and the Soviet Union.

He participated in, planned and directed several combat operations against the South African colonial forces in the Caprivi Strip while based in Zambia.

Hawala served in many positions in the army, from assistant commander to army commander, from 1975 to 1989.

After Independence, he joined the Namibian Defence Force as Major General and was later appointed as Army Commander. 

Former President Nangolo Mbumba described the late NDF Chief as a fearless and unwavering patriot who was committed to the liberation of Namibia.

"Therefore, at this gathering, we unite in the spirit of peace and understanding to console one another, more specifically the bereaved family, as we remember the exploits of this gallant son of the Namibian soil."

Laimi Hawala spoke on behalf of her siblings, saying, "My father was a man of perseverance and faith, and I am confident that he will make it in old age. My father was family-oriented; he had a loving and kind heart."

Former President Hifikepunye Pohamba also sent his message of condolence, delivered on his behalf.

The retired Lieutenant General was conferred national honours such as the Order of Eagle 1st Class, the Omugulu-gwombashe medal, the Namibia Cross for Bravery Silver and NDF medals for his outstanding leadership.

The remains of the late Hawala will lie in state until 7 am on Saturday. 

The burial will take place at Old Ongwediva Lutheran Cemetery in the Oshana Region.

He is survived by his wife and six children.