Namibia’s first president, Sam Nujoma, has died at the age of 95. The country’s president, Nangolo Mbumba, announced his death on Sunday, saying Nujoma had been in the hospital for three weeks due to an illness.
With “utmost sorrow and sadness,” we announce “the passing of our revered freedom fighter and revolutionary leader,” Mbumba said.
Nujoma was born into a poor farming family and was the eldest of 10 children. In 1949, he worked as a railway sweeper in Windhoek while attending night school.
During this time, he met Hosea Kutako, a Herero chief who opposed apartheid rule. Kutako became his mentor and introduced him to politics.
In 1960, Nujoma went into exile, leaving behind his wife and children. That same year, he became the leader of the South West African People’s Organisation (SWAPO) and traveled to different countries seeking support for Namibia’s freedom.
In 1966, SWAPO began an armed struggle after South Africa refused a UN order to end its rule over Namibia.
Leadership and Controversies
Namibia finally gained independence in 1990, and Nujoma became the country’s first elected president. He served for three terms, leading Namibia to economic growth and political stability.
While he was praised for his AIDS policies, he was criticized for not helping former SWAPO members imprisoned in Angola over spying allegations.
He was also known for his strong opposition to homosexuality, calling it a “madness” and threatening arrests.
Nujoma’s successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba, took over in 2005, but Nujoma still had political influence until his full retirement in 2007.
Tributes
President Mbumba said Nujoma inspired the people of Namibia to take control of their country.
The president-elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, also praised Nujoma’s leadership and dedication, saying his work built the foundation for Namibia’s unity.
She urged Namibians to honour his legacy by showing resilience and unity.
