Sam Nujoma: Namibia’s Founding Father and Liberation Icon, Passes Away at 95
The visionary leader who fought for independence, fostered reconciliation, and shaped Namibia's future is mourned across Africa
- Sam Nujoma co-founded Swapo and led Namibia to independence from South Africa in 1990
- Served as Namibia’s first president for 15 years, promoting peace and reconciliation
- Tributes pour in, honoring his visionary leadership and dedication to Africa’s unity
Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president and a towering figure in the fight for the country’s independence, has died at the age of 95 in the capital, Windhoek, after a three-week hospitalization.
The announcement was made by Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba, who described Nujoma’s passing as a moment of “utmost sorrow and sadness.”
Nujoma, who co-founded the South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo) in the 1960s, led Namibia’s liberation struggle, culminating in its independence from South Africa in 1990. He became the country’s first president and served three terms before retiring in 2005. He continued as Swapo party leader until 2007.
President Mbumba hailed him as the “father of the nation,” saying, “He inspired us to rise to our feet and to become masters of this vast land of our ancestors.” Mbumba and other mourners, including Nujoma’s widow, Kovambo Theopoldine Katjimune, 91, have reflected on his legacy of peace, stability, and reconciliation.
Nujoma’s policies of national reconciliation encouraged the white community to remain in Namibia post-independence, fostering a diverse and stable economy. He also championed the rights of women and children, introducing measures such as mandatory financial support from fathers for children born out of wedlock.
Tributes have poured in from across Africa. African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat called him “the epitome of courage” and a symbol of a unified Africa. South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa described Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” whose efforts laid the foundation for Namibia and South Africa’s modern solidarity. Kenyan President William Ruto praised his visionary leadership and dedication to nation-building.
Namibia’s Vice-President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who will assume the presidency in March, credited Nujoma with laying the groundwork for a united nation.
Funeral details for the beloved leader, fondly remembered as “the father of the nation,” are yet to be announced.
