Veteran Namibian playwright, actor & arts activist Frederick Brian Philander was buried at the Pioneerspark Cemetery in Windhoek over the weekend.

Philander died on 10 May.

The 75-year-old has been a towering figure in Namibian cultural circles, celebrated for his fearless writing, powerful stage direction and commitment to social justice.

At his funeral, Vickson Hangula, a well-known local film producer, addressed mourners on behalf of the Filmmakers Association of Namibia, calling for a "Freddie Philander Theatre Festival" in his honour.

He described Philander as a Shakespeare of his generation, the "Founding Father of Namibian Theatre", expressing disappointment at the low turnout at his interment.

Philander, Hangula said, was a legend who gave his all to the arts industry in Namibia.

Actor and director Armas Shivute Armas described the late Philander as the "Don King of Namibian Theatre", adding that he was concerned about the lack of recognition for creatives in Namibia, who often die in abject poverty.

He believes Philander should have been accorded a state funeral for his contribution to the arts in Namibia.

His daughter, Zenlia, shared fond memories of a man loved and respected by many, but to her, he was just Daddy.

Philander leaves behind his wife, Felicity, three sons and two daughters.