President Nangolo Mbumba attended his final sermon as head of state at his Olukonda ELCIN congregation in the Oshikoto Region.

With only a few days left before handing over to President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who will be sworn in on March 21, the church was filled to capacity.  

Among the delegation were Oshikoto Governor Penda Ya Ndakolo, Oshikoto Regional Council Chairperson Samuel Shivute, Oshana Governor Elia Irimari, Omukwaniilwa of Ondonga Fillemon Nangolo, and Swapo Oshikoto Coordinator Armas Amikwiyu.  

Mbumba, attending the service in his home village, informed congregants of his imminent departure from office.

He expressed pride in handing over to Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first female president, and urged Namibians to support her leadership.  

"It was a great honour to be Namibia’s President, but it was tough. I took over during a difficult time of mourning our third President. Leading while mourning was challenging, but the time has come for me to pave the way for the incoming President-elect, whom Namibians have chosen," Mbumba said.  

Omukwaniilwa Fillemon Nangolo acknowledged Mbumba’s leadership during challenging times.  

"You did the right thing by coming to say goodbye to your people, which is why they came in large numbers. Leading the nation was not easy, but you carried out your duties diligently. Now, you’ve chosen to bid farewell to your community," Nangolo said.