Harare, Zimbabwe – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has departed Harare for Windhoek, Namibia, to attend the state funeral of the late Namibian founding President, Dr Sam Nujoma. Dr Nujoma, a revered African liberation icon, passed away on February 8 at the age of 95 in a hospital in Windhoek. His burial is scheduled for this Saturday in the Namibian capital.
Accompanying President Mnangagwa on this solemn journey is the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira. The President was seen off at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by Vice Presidents General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga and Cde Kembo Mohadi, along with Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, and service chiefs.
Dr Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first President, played a crucial role in his country’s struggle for independence. Serving as President from 1990 to 2005, he led Namibia from colonial rule to a sovereign state, laying the foundation for the country’s political and economic stability. His legacy as a liberation hero remains deeply entrenched in Namibia and across Africa.
Dr Nujoma was instrumental in Namibia’s liberation movement and was a key figure in the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), which spearheaded the country’s fight against South African apartheid rule. His leadership saw Namibia gain independence in 1990, making him the country’s first Head of State. Under his presidency, Namibia established democratic institutions, economic reforms, and policies aimed at national unity and development.
As one of Africa’s last remaining revolutionary leaders, Dr Nujoma’s contributions extended beyond Namibia. He was a staunch advocate for Pan-Africanism and the decolonization of Africa, working alongside fellow liberation leaders such as Zimbabwe’s late President Robert Mugabe, South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, and Angola’s José Eduardo dos Santos. His commitment to African self-determination made him a symbol of resistance against colonial oppression.
Zimbabwe and Namibia share deep historical ties rooted in their respective struggles for independence. Both nations were supported by the Frontline States, a coalition of Southern African countries that opposed colonialism and apartheid. Dr Nujoma and Zimbabwe’s late founding leader, Robert Mugabe, maintained strong diplomatic relations that have continued under President Mnangagwa’s leadership.
Namibia has remained a key ally of Zimbabwe, with both countries collaborating on various economic and political fronts. The strong bilateral relations between the two nations have facilitated trade, education exchanges, and joint efforts in regional integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Dr Nujoma’s passing has been met with deep sorrow across Namibia and the African continent. Tributes have poured in from world leaders, former comrades, and the global community, recognizing his immense contributions to Namibia’s independence and Africa’s liberation struggle. His state funeral is expected to be attended by dignitaries from across Africa, highlighting his enduring legacy.
In recognition of Dr Nujoma’s monumental role in Namibia’s history, the Namibian government has declared a period of national mourning. Flags are flying at half-mast, and various ceremonies have been held across the country to honor his contributions.
President Mnangagwa’s attendance at the state funeral underscores Zimbabwe’s solidarity with Namibia in this moment of grief. His presence also reaffirms the enduring relationship between the two nations and their shared history of liberation struggles. Vice President General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga has been appointed Acting President in President Mnangagwa’s absence, ensuring the continuity of government operations in Zimbabwe.
As the African continent mourns the loss of a revolutionary leader, Dr Sam Nujoma’s legacy will continue to inspire generations committed to freedom, unity, and progress. His unwavering dedication to Namibia’s independence and his contributions to the liberation of Africa cement his place in history as one of the continent’s most influential leaders.
In other news – South Africa launches nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration amid economic strains
South Africa has announced a nationwide campaign to flush out illegal immigrants, citing economic pressures that are likely to be worsened by recent sanctions imposed by Donald Trump’s United States government. The large-scale operation, set to commence on March 1, 2025, aims to enforce the country’s immigration laws and curb the presence of undocumented foreign nationals.
In a statement dated February 25, 2025, South Africa’s Home Affairs spokesperson, Siya Qoza, confirmed that the crackdown would primarily target illegal immigrants from Zimbabwe, Somalia, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Malawi. Read More
