Family, friends and colleagues of the late NBC's long-serving former employee of Lamech Mwanyangapo remembered him as a dedicated media professional, a loving family man and a passionate advocate for cancer awareness.

Mourners gathered at the Inner City Lutheran Parish in Windhoek yesterday for a memorial service.

Mwanyangapo died on 29 August after a battle with cancer.

Mwanyangapo's nearly three decades of service to the national broadcaster and his contribution to documenting Namibia's history were among the key themes reflected during the memorial service.

Speakers after speaker remembered Mwanyangapo as a dedicated media professional, a courageous camera operator, a loving family man and a committed community servant.

A friend, Magano Shiimi, spoke on behalf of the widow.

“He was a humble and peaceful man who never wished harm upon anyone. He was always cheerful and full of joy.”

Chief Justice Peter Shivute spoke on behalf of the siblings.

*Lamech was a way of bringing us together, whether it was through a shared joke, a thoughtful phone call, or a simple habit of checking upon us.”

Oscar Nangolo delivered a tribute on behalf of the children.

“A father's love is one of life's greatest gifts. It is steady, selfless and unconditional: a love that embraces us, guides us and walks with us through every season of life.”

NBC Board member Michael Jimmy also paid tribute to the veteran employee.

“Lamech was more than an employee of the NBC. He was a dedicated member of our organisation who served the corporation for more than three decades. He was documenting the story of a brave nation.”

David Nuyoma delivered a tribute on behalf of the Sam Nujoma Foundation.

“Comrade Lamech was a seasoned media professional who maintained a strong, long-standing working relationship with our Founding President. He generously shared his valuable expertise and insights whenever called upon.”

Katwali Nambala spoke on behalf of the Lamech Mwanyangapo Cancer Foundation.

“We are not only paying tribute to the founder and chairman of our foundation but also to a man who, while facing his own battle, still had time to think about how he could make this journey easier for others.”

Elliot Mbako paid tribute on behalf of Swapo Party Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa.

“Comrade Lamech Manyangapo was a committed cadre, a dedicated professional, and a loyal compatriot who devoted a part of his life to the service of the party, the Namibian people, and our beloved motherland.”

Modestus Amutse delivered a tribute on behalf of Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare.

“Lamech was more than a cameraman. He was a giant and creative media personality. He always provided the best footage to which a reporter could creatively add text to make a good television story.”

A memorial service will be held at Oshikunda Farm, Onavivi Village, in the Omusati Region, on the 11th, while the burial will take place on the 12th.