Namibians gathered at Walvis Bay to celebrate the life of fearless liberation struggle hero Nathaniel Maxuilili, who died 25 years ago.

Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described the late Maxuilili as a dedicated freedom fighter who fought relentlessly for Namibia's independence.

The legendary Nathaniel Maxuilili's heroic deeds were remembered in the harbour town, where he spent most of his political journey.

Those who knew him say he fought for Namibia's freedom, even if it meant making the ultimate sacrifice.

Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says she was inspired and mobilised by Maxuilili to go into exile, just like thousands of other Namibians who went to liberate the country.

For his dedication, the Swapo stalwart paid a heavy price, facing continuous harassment, imprisonment, banishment, and beatings by the colonial regime.

"Cde Maxuilili never wavered. He continued to play an active role, particularly in mobilising workers and leading the nationwide workers' general strike of 1971 and 1972, in which more than 20 thousand workers participated by laying down their tools. He was truly a pillar of strength and a torchbearer on our journey to freedom."

Describing Maxuilili as a brave man, retired politician Ben Amadhila said he was the first person to organise rallies in the north and Walvis Bay.

"We held the first public rally of Swapo in Walvis Bay in 1961. Later, I was told that people were afraid. They whispered to each other, saying that they expected to be beaten up. So, they stood at a distance. But when Maxuilili started using his strong language, such as 'boere kaka,' and the police did nothing, people started moving forward bit by bit. The fear disappeared because of Maxuilili, and the next rally was a success."

The Vice President urged Swapo Party members to uphold Maxuilili's legacy of public service by ensuring quality service delivery and shared prosperity.

"The most remarkable achievements in the short span of 34 years, something that Cde Maxuilili would be proud of, are in the areas of education, health, agriculture, water, electricity, and communication, among others."

Nandi-Ndaitwah indicated that the government has raised the literacy level from 65 % in 1990 to around 90 percent, while the enrollment rate in primary school stands at 99%.