Namibia’s founding leader, Sam Nujoma, who played a pivotal role in securing the country’s independence from South Africa, has passed away at the age of 95, the presidency confirmed.
President Nangolo Mbumba announced Nujoma’s death on Sunday, revealing that he had been hospitalized for three weeks due to an illness from which he was unable to recover. Expressing deep sorrow, Mbumba described him as a revered freedom fighter and revolutionary leader who dedicated his life to serving Namibia.
Born into a humble farming family from the Ovambo tribe, Nujoma was the eldest of ten children. In 1949, he took a job as a railway sweeper near Windhoek while attending night school. During this time, he met Herero tribal chief Hosea Kutako, a key figure in the fight against apartheid in Namibia. Under Kutako’s mentorship, Nujoma became politically active, standing with black workers resisting government efforts to relocate them in the late 1950s.
In 1960, at Kutako’s urging, Nujoma went into exile, leaving behind his wife and four children. That same year, he was elected president of the South West People’s Organisation (SWAPO) and traveled extensively to rally international support for Namibia’s independence.
SWAPO took up arms in 1966 after South Africa refused a UN directive to relinquish control over the territory, arguing it served as a buffer against communism. Namibia, rich in natural resources, finally gained independence in 1990, becoming one of Africa’s last nations to achieve self-rule.
Elected as the country’s first democratic president, Nujoma led Namibia for three terms, overseeing economic growth and political stability. His approach to AIDS prevention earned international recognition, but his refusal to reintegrate former SWAPO fighters accused of spying for apartheid South Africa drew criticism.
Nujoma was also known for his strong views on social issues. In 2001, he spoke out against homosexuality, calling it "madness" and threatening arrests or deportations.
In 2005, he handed over the presidency to his chosen successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba, but remained an influential political figure until officially retiring two years later.
Reflecting on his legacy, President Mbumba praised Nujoma for inspiring Namibians to take control of their destiny. President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, set to be sworn in next month, acknowledged his visionary leadership in laying the foundation for a united and independent Namibia. She urged the nation to honor his legacy through resilience, solidarity, and selfless service.
