President’s final farewell to ‘diamond’ of Etunda village

President Nangolo Mbumba, Heroes’ Acre, Windhoek, 1 March 2025

We have gathered on these hallowed grounds, the final resting place of Namibia’s heroes and heroines, to lay to rest a most distinguished son of the soil, a giant among leaders and a revolutionary icon.

Although our hearts remain laden with grief, we take solace that president Sam Nujoma, who will now rest among his fellow illustrious heroes and heroines, has completed his mission with distinction, fulfilling his destiny and leaving behind the most precious gift of freedom and independence for the people of Namibia.

We salute you, diamond of Etunda Village, for a life well lived, in service of the Republic of Namibia. Those of us who had the privilege of being under your command during the struggle fondly recall how, as a leader, you always displayed confident demeanor in front of your comrades. We recall how during the central committee meetings in the remote areas of Angola, you would say: “Next time we will have this meeting at the outskirts of Windhoek.”

Not only did you lead us to the outskirts of Windhoek, but to the heart of the city itself. We fought and won the liberation struggle, and forever removed apartheid colonialism from the face of Namibia. Indeed, we are now the masters of our destiny.

Today, we have returned to the outskirts of Windhoek, this time not to celebrate a homecoming but to bid you our final farewell. You were the ultimate statesman and commander-in-chief. 

Namibia is proud to call you a son of the soil. May your legacy of dedication and hard work become a source of strength for the Nujoma family and the entire Namibian nation, as we continue to uphold your command of maintaining unity of purpose. And to fulfill your vision to improve the quality of life of the people of Namibia to the level of their counterparts in the developed world.

On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Namibia, I extend our heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathies to Madame Kovambo Nujoma, the children, grandchildren and extended members of the Nujoma and Kondombolo families. The entire Namibia stands together with you during this difficult period and the days ahead.

Dear president Sam ‘Shafiishuna’ Nujoma, may you rest in perfect peace, as we salute you and say our final goodbyes.

May God Almighty grant unto you eternal rest, and make His perpetual light shine upon you.

Farewell father of the Namibian nation,
Farewell founding president of the Republic of Namibia,
Farewell leader of the Namibian revolution.

May your brave soul rest in eternal peace.

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