Hundreds of mourners bid farewell to the iconic businessman John Savva, who was buried at the Walvis Bay cemetery this afternoon (Sat).

Since the influential businessman died last week, mourners shared testimonies about how his generosity and leadership transformed lives.

His remains arrived at the NG Church, accompanied by his widow, Roulla, family members, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, former president Nangolo Mbumba, amongst others.

His son-in-law Elia Hadjidakis urged Namibians to let Savva's life story inspire them to achieve greatness.

He mentioned in the eulogy that Savva arrived in Namibia about six decades ago as a young unemployed man with only 20 Rand in his pocket.

However, his hunger drove him to work hard and become a successful entrepreneur, according to Elia.

"Last Saturday, my father-in-law died, but that story must not die; that story is a testimony to Namibians, especially the young, that if you are hungry enough, if you are determined enough, you will never have to say where you came from because that doesn't count; only where you are going counts.”

The late philanthropist gained the nickname "Uncle Savva," with many regarding him as a leader who took others under his wing, built bridges, and gave without expectations.

“He never did anything for profit; he did everything for purpose. When he built Atlantic Beach, he built it to bring life to the desert. When he laid the trees, he did it to put Namibia on the map. When he built the police station. Every cent he made he put back into the land; he put it back into the people to create employment and paid taxes to build this nation,” added Elia.

As Savva's remains reached the final resting place at the Walvis Bay cemetery, the mourners pondered on the void his passing left in the harbour town's business community and civil society.

His story, they remarked, remains a point of reference for the future and success of individuals and the harbour town.