Kenyan President William Ruto has joined world leaders in mourning the passing of Namibia’s founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma. In a heartfelt message, Ruto hailed Nujoma as a selfless, courageous, and visionary leader whose legacy will be remembered across Africa.
Ruto acknowledged Nujoma’s immense contributions to Namibia’s liberation and post-independence development. He expressed his deep condolences to Nujoma’s family and the people of Namibia, emphasizing that his death was a great loss to the continent.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Namibia in mourning the passing away of their founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma. President Nujoma was a selfless, courageous, and visionary leader who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of his country,” Ruto said on Sunday.
He further conveyed prayers for comfort and strength to Nujoma’s family, friends, and all Namibians mourning their national hero. “Our thoughts and love are with the family and the people of Namibia at this time of grief. Rest In Peace, Africa’s hero!” he added.
Nujoma’s death was announced by Namibia’s current President, Nangolo Mbumba, who confirmed that the former leader passed away on Saturday at the age of 95 in Windhoek. According to Mbumba, Nujoma had been hospitalized for three weeks battling an illness from which he could not recover.
Sam Nujoma was a towering figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from South African rule. He co-founded the South West African People’s Organization (SWAPO) in the 1960s and became the face of the liberation movement. His leadership played a pivotal role in Namibia gaining independence in 1990, making him the country’s first president.
Nujoma served as Namibia’s head of state from 1990 to 2005, overseeing significant economic and social development. Even after stepping down from the presidency, he remained at the helm of SWAPO until 2007, marking nearly five decades of leadership in the party.
As Namibia and the world reflect on his legacy, many remember Nujoma as a steadfast revolutionary leader whose commitment to his country’s independence never wavered. His contributions to Namibia and Africa at large will continue to inspire generations to come.
The Namibian government is expected to announce further details regarding Nujoma’s state funeral as the nation prepares to bid farewell to its founding father.
