Following Sam Nujoma’s death on 8 February, the world has reacted to Namibia’s founding president – both locally and internationally.
Here are some notable quotes delivered in the past few weeks:
Zimbabwean president, Emmerson Mnangagwa
I was privileged to work alongside the late statesman and African icon, Dr Nujoma. He was a wealth of wisdom.
Namibian president Nangolo Mbumba
He spared no effort to motivate each and every Namibian to build a country that would stand tall and proud among the nations of the world.
Former Namibian president, Hifikepunye Pohamba
Comrade Nujoma’s departure reminds us of the long journey we have travelled as Namibians.
Utoni Nujoma
Our father was a loving husband to his dear wife, our mother, Meme Kovambo Nujoma, and a caring father to my siblings and I, as well as a reliable and protective head of family who devoted his life to the entire Nujoma, Kondombolo and Mushimba families.
King Charles III
President Nujoma’s contribution to history was immense.
President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana
I am deeply saddened by the death of Sam Nujoma, the founding president of Namibia and one of the heroes of African liberation.
President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
We must pledge to keep alive the legacy of president Nujoma, his unflinching commitment to the unity of our people, while respecting our diversity from which we draw strength.
Minister of health and social services, Kalumbi Shangula
The medical fraternity and all health workers are shattered and devastated by the demise of our hero, our founding president, this hero and freedom fighter par excellence.
South African president Cyril Ramaphosa
President Nujoma’s leadership of a free Namibia laid the foundation for the solidarity and partnership our two countries share today – a partnership we will continue to deepen as neighbours and friends.
Institute for Public Policy Research executive director, Graham Hopwood
Although he started his political career as the leader of the Ovamboland People’s Organisation, he quickly realised the need for an inclusive, nationalist liberation movement.
City of Windhoek chief executive, Moses Matyayi
Nujoma lived a life dedicated to the service of the people.
Chinese president Xi Jinping
President Sam Nujoma was a statesman and revolutionary of the older generation in Africa who made historic contributions in leading the Namibian people.
European Union delegation to Namibia
We stand in solidarity with the government and people of Namibia as they honour the life and contributions of their revered leader.
Veteran Namibian, journalist Gwen Lister
History will remember him to a greater extent for his role as the leader of a liberation movement . . . as his autocratic tendencies would never translate well in a democratic environment.
Embassy of France
Sam Nujoma was a pillar of the Franco-Namibian friendship, playing a key role in strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between Namibia and France
UK minister for Africa Ray Collins
My deepest condolences to the people of Namibia following the death of Dr Sam Nujoma, who dedicated his life to the freedom of his people. –
Former first lady of Zimbabwe Grace Mugabe
I am happy that he was able to see all he wished for happening.
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