February Becomes a Tragic Month for Namibia as the Nation Mourns the Loss of Two Leaders, Former President Hage Geingob on February 4, 2024, and Now Founding President Sam Nujoma.
Namibia mourns founding president Sam Nujoma, who passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95. President Nangolo Mbumba announced that Nujoma died at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital in Windhoek, where he had been receiving treatment for the past three weeks.
Born on May 12, 1929, in Ongandjera, Ovamboland, Nujoma was a pivotal figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from apartheid South Africa. He co-founded the Ovamboland People’s Organization in 1959, which later became the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in 1960. As SWAPO’s president, Nujoma led the movement’s armed wing, the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN), in a protracted guerrilla war that culminated in Namibia’s independence in 1990.
Nujoma served as Namibia’s first president from 1990 to 2005, guiding the nation through its formative years. His leadership was instrumental in fostering national unity and establishing democratic institutions. He was also recognized for promoting the advancement of women in Namibia, a country that recently elected its first female president.
International condolences have poured in following Nujoma’s passing. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed deep sorrow on behalf of the Tanzanian people, describing Nujoma as a “freedom fighter” and a “dear friend of Tanzania.” She extended her condolences to Namibia’s leaders and Nujoma’s family, stating, “May his soul rest in peace.”
Namibia’s ambassador to China, Elia Kaiyamo, reflected on Nujoma’s legacy, stating that the founding president had fulfilled his historic mission entrusted to him by Hosea Kutako and Namibia’s struggle for liberation.
At the family residence, Nujoma’s widow, Kovambo Nujoma, aged 93, is surrounded by her children and family members as they gather to mourn. The couple was married for 68 years. Members of SWAPO have also arrived to pay their respects.
Nujoma’s passing marks the end of an era for Namibia. His contributions to the nation’s independence and development have left an indelible mark on its history. As the country reflects on his legacy, plans for a state funeral are underway, with details to be announced in the coming days.
