The enduring legacy of the late Founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma, is evident as Namibia and other nations continue to come together in his honour.
During a special commemorative ceremony at the United Nations headquarters in New York, speakers paid tribute to the late Nujoma, emphasising his unwavering belief in the power of unity and national reconciliation as the cornerstone of nation-building.
As many continue to embrace the visionary leadership and legacy of the late Founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma, the United Nations also gathered to honour him, echoing profound sentiments about his leadership impact.
Reflecting on his legacy, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Martha Koome, described the late Nujoma as a man of unwavering conviction, a statesman of exceptional stature, and a visionary leader who embodied courage and dedication to Namibia's unity and self-determination.
Speaking on behalf of the UN's Secretary-General António Guterres, Koome highlighted Nujoma's enduring impact and commitment to his nation—Namibia.
"He worked to transform the land of struggle into a land of hope, opportunity, and prosperity for all sons and daughters. Dr. Nujoma's unwavering commitment to a united and democratic Namibia will shine on as a beacon to inspire the coming generations. Let us honour his legacy by championing the values that he held so dear and fought for tirelessly."
Namibia's Ambassador to the United Nations, Neville Gertze, described Dr. Nujoma as "a colossal baobab tree that has fallen."
Ambassador Gertze praised the late Dr. Nujoma's unwavering commitment to the aspirations of Namibians, reflecting on his words: "A people united, striving for the common good of all the members of its society, will always emerge victorious."
Gertze emphasised that this was not merely a philosophy but a guiding principle for Nujoma's life's work.
He also highlighted one of the late leaders' most significant achievements in fostering national reconciliation, which was the successful integration of the former People's Liberation Army of Namibia's fighters with their former adversaries from the South West Africa Territorial Forces and Koevoet into a unified national defence force.
"The success of this inconceivable, perhaps even incomprehensible, experiment, is today a shining example of his vision for "One Namibia—One Nation." Inspired by his lessons, we must pick up the baton and forge forward as our homage to his enduring legacy. out.
In a heartfelt personal reflection and tribute, the late Dr. Nujoma's brother, Noah Nujoma, recalled a young, kind, generous, and compassionate Nujoma who was always willing to share anything and everything with his family and siblings.
From 1960 to 1990, the late Founding President advocated for Namibia's independence at the United Nations and international forums.
He remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice, self-determination, and freedom for his people. He did so by engaging with world leaders, including at the United Nations, where they too remembered him at this event.