Katjirua was a generous leader – Pohamba

Former president Hifikepunye Pohamba has paid tribute to the late Ovambanderu Traditional Authority senior councillor, Gerson Katjirua.

Pohamba says he remembers Katjirua as a selfless leader who served his community tirelessly.

Katjirua, a recognised war veteran, died on 27 April, and was laid to rest at the Ovambanderu Heroes’ Acre at Okahandja on Sunday.

In a speech read on his behalf, Pohamba said Katjirua was deeply respected and loved by his family and by many other Namibians.

“The late comrade Katjirua was known as a generous leader, a man of integrity, a humble servant of the late Chief Munjuku Nguvauva II.

“He also acted as chief of the Ovambanderu Traditional Authority,” the former head of state said.

Pohamba recalled Katjirua’s dedicated service to the Ovambanderu community, including accompanying chief Nguvauva on trips to Zambia before independence to meet founding president Sam Nujoma in exile during the liberation struggle.

The former president said records show Katjirua left Namibia in 1984, travelling through Botswana to Zambia, where he met the Swapo leadership and attended Swapo’s consultative conferences in Lusaka.

Pohamba said Katjirua, affectionately known as ‘Omutize’, joined Swapo’s liberation movement during the colonial regime.

He said the Ovambanderu community faced hardships, such as the denial of basic amenities like diesel and borehole parts, due to their alliance with Swapo.

“We thus mourn the passing of a brave comrade, a kind leader, a real peacemaker, a dear husband, father, brother, and grandfather.

“May you be strengthened and consoled by the fact that his exemplary life of loyalty, determination, and love for his people will continue to serve as an inspiration to all,” his statement read.

On behalf of his family, the Pohamba extended condolences to Katjirua’s widow, Frieda, their children, grandchildren, siblings, and his entire bereaved family.

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