Geingob remembers Jane Katjavivi

In his message of condolence, Geingob said he learned with sadness of the passing of Katjavivi, who he described as a dependable family friend.

“Jane was helping out at the Swapo office and became a steadfast supporter of freedom fighters during the liberation struggle.

“Therefore, she became one of us in advancing our fight for freedom and independence. After independence in 1990, as an accomplished author and passionate editor, Jane was instrumental in building Namibian literature and assisted many with editing manuscripts and documents,” he said.

Geingob said the role Kajavivi played in the development of language and the preservation of Namibian literature will be cherished.

“Jane will be sorely missed by many of us for her gentle demeanour and willingness to offer assistance to those in need,” Geingob said.

The late Katjavivi was the founding publisher of the University of Namibia (Unam) Press from 2011 to 2016, and the author of the memoir 'Undisciplined Heart', among other publications.

High-ranking government officials, including deputy speaker Loide Kasingo, deputy minister of mines and energy Kornelia Shilunga, Independent Patriots for Change leader Panduleni Itula and minister of labour Utoni Nujoma were among the first mourners to visit the Katjavivi residence in Windhoek yesterday morning.

“During this difficult hour of grief for the Katjavivi family, I extend on behalf of the Namibian people and government, my wife Monica Geingos and my family, sincere condolences to my dear brother, comrade Peter Katjavivi, the children and the entire bereaved family.

“May the soul of madam Jane Katjavivi rest in eternal peace,” Geingob said.

Agriculture, Water and Land Reform minister Calle Schlettwein described the late Katjavivi as a person who cared and said her death was a loss to all.

“She helped many writers to publish their work and made a tremendous contribution to Namibian literature,” Schlettwein said.

Also extending his condolences was Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) leader McHenry Venaani.

Venaani expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, as well as friends, former colleagues and associates of Katjavivi during this difficult period of grief.

He said the Katjavivi family had lost a matriarch and pillar of support.

“On this day, as we bid farewell to Jane, we also celebrate a life well lived in the service of her people and her country as an activist and sympathiser of change in southern Africa.

We thank the Katjavivi family for sharing Jane with us and allowing her to make a difference in the history of this great nation. May God grant comfort and strength to the family during this difficult period. May her soul rest in everlasting peace,” he said.

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