Hundreds of mourners gathered at Gammams Cemetery in the capital for the burial of liberation stalwart Polykarpus Nghoshi Kaukungua.

Kaukungua, who was conferred a state funeral, died on the 20th of August, aged 91.

As a young man, Polykarpus Kaukungua joined the likes of Andimba Toivo ya Toivo, Tobias Hainyeko, and other stalwarts in Cape Town, South Africa, in 1958, where they participated in the politics of the liberation struggle.

While there, Kaukungua played an integral role in the formation of the Owamboland People's Congress, which later became the Owamboland People's Organisation and, ultimately, in 1960, the Swapo Party.

He is also lauded for serving the struggle as an organiser, mobilizer, fundraiser, and logistical go-to person.

At his memorial service on Friday at Hallelujah Parish, President Hage Geingob, in a speech read on his behalf, described the late Kaukungua as a dedicated patriot.

"Although the journey to independence was not an easy one, Comrade Kaukungua never wavered. He stood the test of time, upholding the valour and virtue of the liberation-era revolutionaries. He joined the struggle out of conviction, out of patriotism, and out of a burning desire for change."

Former President Hifikepunye Pohamba paid his final tribute in absentia, describing the late Kaukungua as a courageous man.

"He organised fundraising costs for detainees in South Africa as well as fellow comrades who were leaving for exile. When he retired in 1973, he inspired many people to join the struggle."

The late Kaukungua is brother to fellow late struggle icon Simon Mzee Kaukungua and former Ambassador Shapua Kaukungua.

As his casket was lowered, a six-volley gun salute signified his final departure.