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Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president and a towering figure in the country’s struggle for independence, has died at the age of 95 in the capital, Windhoek.
The announcement was made by Namibia’s current president, Nangolo Mbumba, who expressed “utmost sorrow and sadness” over the passing of the revered statesman.
Nujoma, a key architect of Namibia’s liberation from South African rule, was instrumental in the founding of the South West People’s Organisation (Swapo) in the 1960s, which spearheaded the independence movement. His relentless fight against apartheid-led oppression culminated in Namibia’s long-awaited independence in 1990.
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Following the country’s liberation, Nujoma served as Namibia’s first president from 1990 to 2005, laying the foundation for peace, stability, and economic growth. He continued to lead Swapo until 2007, marking nearly five decades at the helm of the ruling party.
In his tribute, President Mbumba hailed Nujoma as a visionary leader who “inspired us to rise to our feet and to become masters of this vast land of our ancestors.” His policy of national reconciliation after independence encouraged the white community to remain in the country, fostering economic stability while ensuring unity among diverse ethnic groups.
Nujoma was also a staunch advocate for social justice, championing the rights of women and children. His administration enforced laws requiring fathers to financially support children born out of wedlock, reinforcing family responsibility and gender equality.
Nujoma’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from African leaders. Namibia’s Vice-President and President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah praised his “visionary leadership and dedication to liberation and nation-building,” crediting him with laying the foundation for a free and united Namibia.
African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat described Nujoma as “the epitome of courage, never wavering from his vision for a free Namibia and a unified Africa.”
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa paid homage to Nujoma’s role in both Namibia’s independence and the fight against apartheid in South Africa, calling him an “extraordinary freedom fighter.” He added that Nujoma’s leadership laid the groundwork for the strong diplomatic ties between Namibia and South Africa.
Kenyan President William Ruto also lauded Nujoma as a “visionary leader who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of his country.”
Namibians have been deeply moved by the passing of their founding father, with many remembering him as the “father of the nation.” A teary-eyed President Mbumba visited Nujoma’s home to offer condolences to his widow, Kovambo Theopoldine Katjimune, 91, and his family.
Nujoma had been hospitalised for the past three weeks due to an illness from which he could not recover. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy as a freedom fighter, nation-builder, and peacemaker will remain deeply embedded in Namibia’s history.
Plans for his funeral and national memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days.
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