The first People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan) commander Tobias Hainyeko, and former Swapo vice president Brendan Simbwaye, will be among liberation struggle figures honoured at Heroes’ Acre during this year’s Heroes’ Day commemorations on 24 August.
Information minister Emma Theofelus announced on Thursday that Hainyeko and Simbwaye will receive ceremonial burials, while former political prisoners Simon Niilenge, Festus Nehale and Duuvu Nangolo will be reburied at Heroes’ Acre.
Hainyeko was killed in battle in the Zambezi region in May 1967, while Simbwaye is said to have disappeared around 1972, and is believed to have been killed by South African forces. The burial sites of both remain unknown.
The Namibian reported on Thursday that the remains of Eliaser Tuhadeleni, Immanuel Shifidi and Nathanael Maxuilili were also being prepared for reburial at Heroes’ Acre.
“The 2026 Heroes’ Day commemorations will begin with a deeply moving and historic occasion. On 24 August 2026, seven of our fallen freedom fighters will be accorded the dignity and honour they so richly deserve through a reburial at the Heroes’ Acre,” Theofelus said.
