Liberation struggle veteran Themus Cosmos "Mangango" Nkandi was buried on Tuesday at Omugulugwombashe Memorial Shrine, Uukwaluudhi, in the Tsandi Constituency in the Omusati Region.

The late Nkandi, who died at the age of 77, was conferred an official funeral by President Nangolo Mbumba.

Nkandi left for exile in 1974 and received military training alongside the likes of Lawrence Sampofu, Shiimi Joseph, and Mwilima Patrick.

He was deployed to the Eastern Front, where he served with distinction as a mortar operator, where he played a pivotal role in repelling incursions by the South African Forces into Zambia.

He served at the PLAN Operation Headquarters as a security officer, safeguarding PLAN commanders across various fronts.

After independence, the late Nkandi joined the Swapo party's directorate of elections and technical services and retired as a senior officer in the Office of the Presidency in 2010.

President Nangolo Mbumba's speech was read on his behalf by the Governor of the Omusati Region, Erginus Endjala.

"Fellow mourners, as we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his extraordinary patriotism. I urge each of you to carry forward the legacy of comrade Nkandi by upholding the values of unity and freedom and justice, which he stood for. Let us honour him by ensuring that our Namibia house remains resolutely united and focused in pursuing the core values of peace, justice, and prosperity of its citizens."

The late Nkandi was described by the family as a man of unique character who cared more about others than himself.

"If energy could be inherited, I could inherit it from my husband. I have lost my brave husband. Who will be getting work done for me anymore?.

He leaves behind his wife Helena Nkandi and five children.