Mourners gathered at Gobabis to bid farewell to war veteran and community leader Olivia Penehafo Ueitele.

She died on 14 June, aged 97.

The late Ueitele was remembered for her unwavering faith, dedication to the church, service to her community, and her contribution to Namibia's liberation struggle alongside her late husband, Evangelist Filipus Ueitele.

Vice President Lucia Witbooi's message, read on her behalf, encouraged mourners not to surrender in despair.

MP in the National Assembly, Dr Tobie Aupindi, commended the late Ueitele for her contributions to society.

“Mee kulu Olivia belonged to a generation of resilient Namibians whose contributions to family, community, church and the country helped shape the foundation of our nation at large.”

Swapo Party Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa honoured the Ueitele for being an enduring symbol of defiance against apartheid oppression.

“Her courage was extraordinary; she stood firm against injustices and refused to be intimidated. She sheltered and assisted freedom fighters, and therefore we are here. Her legacy, courage and selfless service, faith and unity will remain a source of inspiration to the family and the community she lived in, mostly here in Gobabis.”

The Governor of Omaheke Region, Pijoo Nganate, also paid tribute.

"A woman of unwavering faith, quiet strength and immeasurable wisdom, her life was a testimony to service, to sacrifice and to devotion to both family and community.”

The burial was attended by political leaders, traditional authorities, church leaders, family, friends, and members of the community.