The Church of Africa is mourning the passing of bishop Paulus Kandjou (94), who died on 17 January at his homestead at Ezorongondo in the Omaheke region.
Born in Botswana, Kandjou was one of the longest-serving members of the Church of Africa and contributed immensely to the church in both Namibia and Botswana.
Before his promotion to bishop in 2023, he had been a pastor since 1976. Kandjou joined the Church of Africa in 1965.
The Church of Africa was founded in 1963 by the Ovambanderu community.
Church of Africa secretary general Ileni Henguva describes Kandjou’s death as a significant loss, highlighting his dedication and service to the church.
“The late bishop was a true servant of God. He sacrificed his time for the Church of Africa in many aspects,” he says.
Evangelist Mburumba Tjitunga echoes his sentiments, calling Kandjou a father figure and praising his contributions as a community leader, farmer and motivator for youth involvement in churches.
“It is a big loss, but who are we to question the will of God? We have to celebrate the legacy our bishop left behind,” says Tjitunga, who hails from the same village as the bishop.
Tjitunga says many people from the Ezorongondo settlement are members of the Church of Africa because of Kandjou’s influence.
Tuahuma Kandjou, the niece of the late bishop, describes her uncle as a man of principles.
“He loved the church, was always on time and was a hardworking person. My uncle raised us to be responsible and today we have our homesteads because of his influence,” she says.
She adds that Kandjou was a good problem-solver and a leader of both the Ovakuenambura and Ovakuejuva matrimonial lineages.
“He cared for his family and didn’t want disputes between families,” she says.
Kandjou’s nephew, Nicanor Ndjoze, says he will be laid to rest at Ezorongondo village on Sunday.
A memorial service will be held in Windhoek today.
The late bishop Kandjou is survived by his wife, 10 children and more than 100 grandchildren.
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