THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
Namibia’s founding president and independence hero, Sam Nujoma, passed away on Saturday, 8 February, at the age of 95.
Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba announced Nujoma’s passing, stating, “The foundations of the Republic of Namibia have been shaken… Our venerable leader, Dr. Nujoma, did not only blaze the trail to freedom – but he also inspired us to rise to our feet and to become masters of this vast land of our ancestors.”
The former president had been hospitalized for three weeks due to an illness from which he did not recover.
Tributes have poured in from across Africa and beyond, honouring Nujoma’s immense contributions to Namibia’s independence and his lasting influence on the continent’s liberation and unity.
African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat described Nujoma as a liberation icon and one of the world’s most illustrious revolutionary leaders. “Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma was the epitome of courage, never wavering from his vision for a free Namibia and a unified Africa,” he added.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo described Nujoma as a “quintessential patriot and courageous leader” who dedicated his life to national service. He recalled Nigeria’s strong support for Namibia’s liberation struggle and urged Namibians to uphold Nujoma’s legacy, emphasizing, “Never let the labour of this great hero be in vain.”
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” whose role extended beyond Namibia, impacting South Africa’s own fight against apartheid.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa reflected on their shared history, calling Nujoma both a neighbor and a brother in the struggle against colonial rule. “His legacy is etched in the history of Africa’s liberation,” Mnangagwa remarked.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu praised Nujoma as a pan-Africanist and a close ally of Tanzania during the liberation era, describing his life as an inspiration to future generations committed to justice and equality.
Kenyan President William Ruto lauded Nujoma as a “selfless, courageous, and visionary leader” who shaped Namibia’s independence and development.
From beyond Africa, former U.S. President Bill Clinton recalled hosting Nujoma at the White House in 1993, referring to him as the “George Washington of Namibia” and a global champion of democracy. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged Nujoma’s leadership in Namibia’s transition to independence and his lifelong commitment to peace and unity.
These tributes underscore Sam Nujoma’s significant impact on influence on the African continent’s pursuit of freedom and unity.
Born into a farming family of the Ovambo ethnic group, Nujoma was the eldest of ten children. He grew up facing hardship but pursued education while working as a railway sweeper near Windhoek. His political awakening began when he met Herero Chief Hosea Kutako, a fierce opponent of apartheid rule, who mentored him into activism.
Forced into exile in 1960, Nujoma left behind his family and took on the mantle of leadership as the first president of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO). For decades, he tirelessly lobbied for Namibia’s independence while SWAPO waged an armed struggle against South African rule.
Under his leadership, Namibia gained independence in 1990, making it one of the last African nations to break free from colonial domination. Nujoma became the country’s first democratic president, guiding it through a critical period of political stability and economic growth. He served three terms before handing over power to his successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba, in 2005, though he remained an influential figure in national politics for years.
President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah honoured Nujoma’s “visionary leadership” and urged Namibians to uphold his legacy of resilience and unity.
Sam Nujoma’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy as a liberation icon and nation-builder will continue to inspire generations to come.
Adira Kallo
