Nghimtina laid to rest

Former Cabinet minister Erkki Nghimtina was laid to rest at the Eenhana Memorial Shrine on Saturday, marking the end of a man many call a pillar of the liberation struggle and independent Namibia.

The liberation hero and Swapo stalwart (78) died at his home at Edundja Village on 8 February, leaving behind his family, comrades and a nation he served with unwavering loyalty.

As the casket, draped in the national flag, was lowered, a 17-gun salute was fired.

Vice president Lucia Witbooi, Swapo secretary general Sophia Shaningwa, first gentleman Denga Ndaitwah, service chiefs, Cabinet ministers and senior government officials joined the Nghimtina family in mourning a man remembered for his discipline, humility and steadfast commitment to the party and the country.

In a message delivered by Witbooi during Friday’s memorial service, president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described Nghimtina as a courageous cadre who carried every responsibility entrusted to him with selfless dedication and a sense of duty.

Former president Hifikepunye Pohamba reflected on their years of working side by side, recalling shared dreams for national development, including the expansion of the Windhoek–Okahandja dual carriageway.

He said Nghimtina’s contributions to the nation’s progress would remain etched in history.

Shaningwa said the party had lost a loyal son whose legacy of sacrifice and service would continue to inspire future generations.

Nghimtina is survived by his widow, Ester Nghidimbwa, and 18 children.

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