As a mark of respect for the late Namibian leader Hage Geingob, various countries around the world have directed that national flags be hoisted at half-mast.

In the SADC region, Botswana, on Sunday, as part of their mourning for the late Namibian leader, directed that flags countrywide be hoisted at half-mast until the late Dr. Geingob is buried.

In East Africa, Kenya's President William Ruto issued an executive order that all flags fly at half mast starting Monday as a sign of respect.

Ruto made the announcement during a prayer service in Kakamega, a town in western Kenya, where he led residents there in observing a moment of silence.

Cuba's President Miguel Díaz-Canel decreed an official mourning period on the island from February 5th to 12:00 p.m. as of February 6.

In a statement, Díaz-Canel described the late Geingob as a tireless fighter for the independence of Namibia who demonstrated in his capacity as President, Prime Minister, and other high portfolios.

He added that the late Geingob had enormous affection and friendship for Cuba and contributed greatly to consolidating and strengthening the historic relations of brotherhood between the two countries.

Dr. Geingob received the "Carlos Manuel de Céspedes" Order in 1994 and was awarded the José Martí Order, which will be awarded posthumously. 

The United Kingdom in Europe also had the Union flag half-masted at all government buildings as of Sunday until this Monday.

The UK government ordered all other organisations and local authorities to follow suit.

The tradition of flying the flag at half-mast began in the 17th century.

Half-mast refers to a flag flying below the summit of a ship mast, a pole on land, or a pole on a building.

In many countries, this is seen as a symbol of respect, mourning, distress, or, in some cases, a salute.