Namibia and the international community mourn the death of Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, the country’s founding president and a venerated leader who led the nation to independence from apartheid South Africa. News of his passing at the age of 95 in Windhoek was confirmed by the Namibian presidency, leading to an outpouring of tributes from global leaders.
Born on May 12, 1929, in the Omugulugwombashe area in the northern part of the then South-West Africa, Nujoma was a charismatic figure whose political career spanned decades. As the founding president of the South-West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), he became the face of Namibia’s struggle for independence. Nujoma lived much of his earlier political life in exile while orchestrating efforts on the ground to achieve freedom for his homeland.
The journey to Namibian independence was fraught with challenges. As South-West Africa, the region was governed by apartheid South Africa, and its inhabitants faced severe racial discrimination and economic exploitation. Nujoma’s leadership in SWAPO became instrumental in mobilizing Namibians to press for their independence. Under his guidance, diplomatic engagements with the broader international community and an armed liberation struggle intensified.
Nujoma’s perseverance was rewarded in 1990, when Namibia gained independence after decades of conflict and resistance. In recognition of his critical role, Nujoma was elected as the country’s first president in the inaugural democratic elections. His administration set about rebuilding a fractured nation, implementing frameworks for socio-economic stability, and laying the groundwork for a united Namibia.
One of Nujoma’s lasting achievements was his push for national reconciliation. Namibia, like many newly sovereign nations, faced complex racial and political divides. His call for maintaining peace and harmony helped minimize internal conflicts and drew praise as an embodiment of pragmatic leadership.
Serving from 1990 until 2005, Nujoma’s presidency extended over three terms. He used this time to introduce significant reforms, including initiatives in education, infrastructure development, and public health. Agricultural programs were launched to reduce dependency on food imports, while efforts to access global markets increased. Though his presidency was not without criticism—often for centralizing power—his legacy remains intertwined with the emergence of Namibia as an independent state.
Nujoma’s contributions extended into the preservation of the country’s culture and history. Recognized for promoting unity among Namibia’s ethnic groups, he ensured that everyone’s narrative was part of the broader national identity. His autobiography, “Where Others Wavered,” reflects the trials of his personal and political journey, inspiring a generation that benefitted from his sacrifices.
Following his presidency in 2005, Nujoma retired from active politics but continued to serve in an advisory capacity for both his party and government. He remains a revered figure whose decisions, though sometimes contested, are credited with steering Namibia through turbulent waters to a future of hope and opportunity.
President Nangolo Mbumba, the country’s current leader, expressed deep sadness at the passing of the man he described as “Namibia’s father of the nation.” Leaders across Africa and abroad echoed similar sentiments, remembering Nujoma as an ardent campaigner for liberation, equality, and justice. South Africa, in particular, felt strong ties to his efforts, as Namibia’s independence closely intersected with the anti-apartheid struggle.
Sam Nujoma is survived by his wife, Kovambo, and their children. The Namibian government has announced an official period of mourning culminating in a state funeral. Through this national farewell, citizens and colleagues will gather to honor the memory of a leader whose life’s work laid the foundation for an independent Namibia.
As Namibia reflects on its milestones and achievements since 1990, the name of Sam Nujoma is etched into its history. His courage to chase the ideals of freedom and self-determination enriched not only his nation but provided a blueprint for resilience and solidarity for states across the African continent.
