The late Founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma, was known as an advocate for education.

He did more than speak and got the resources together to fund students, both through his foundation and in his personal capacity.

One such beneficiary is Stanley Kambonde, who, after completing his studies in the UK, dedicated himself to assisting small-scale miners in the Kunene Region.

After seeking financial assistance for some time in 2014 and knocking on the doors of numerous companies and organisations in futility, Kambonde gave up his desire to further his studies.

That was until he was introduced to the Founding President.

He said that without hesitation, Nujoma agreed to fund his studies from his pocket towards a master's course in oil and gas in the UK.

The full amount was paid into his account with no lecture or follow-up.

Kambonde recalled the Founding President telling him that they fought for the political emancipation of Namibia and that it was up to the youth to fight for its economic emancipation through education and service.

After completing his studies, he wondered how he could repay Nujoma and sought counsel from him.

Their discussions began focusing on the untapped potential of the Kunene Region.

Nujoma emphasised the importance of starting at the grassroots and respecting the cultures of marginalised communities.

He was moulded and shaped in the ability to think long-term and encouraged to focus on the Kunene Region to find a long-term solution on how mining can be unlocked.

Kambonde, who is also a law graduate, has been on the ground in the Kunene Region for close to a decade, where he dedicated himself to tapping the potential of minerals in the region, such as copper and blue sodalite.

He says Dr. Nujoma instilled in him a vision of patriotism and sacrifice towards a common good.