Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s revered founding father and first president, passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of struggle, leadership, and nation-building. His passing on Saturday marks the end of an era for Namibia, a country he led to independence from South African rule in 1990.
Born in 1929 in northern Namibia, Nujoma emerged as a revolutionary leader, founding the South West People’s Organisation (Swapo) in the 1960s. His unwavering commitment to liberation saw him go into exile, where he tirelessly lobbied international bodies such as the United Nations to support Namibia’s independence. As South Africa’s apartheid regime tightened its grip, Nujoma led Swapo’s guerrilla forces in armed resistance. His leadership was instrumental in the eventual withdrawal of South African troops, leading to Namibia’s long-awaited independence in 1990.
Nujoma was elected as the country’s first president, a position he held until 2005. His governance was marked by efforts to foster unity in a nation scarred by colonial injustices. He promoted national reconciliation, ensuring that white Namibians, despite the history of apartheid, remained key players in the economy. His administration also championed social policies, particularly those advancing the rights of children and women.
However, his presidency was not without controversy. He amended the constitution to secure a third term in office in 1999, a move that drew criticism. While he wielded considerable influence over Namibia’s political landscape, he largely maintained stability and upheld democratic transitions. Even after stepping down, he remained a towering figure in Swapo and Namibian politics.
Nujoma’s legacy extends beyond Namibia. He was a close ally of anti-colonial leaders such as Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe and was recognized globally for his contributions to liberation movements. He received numerous international honors, including the Lenin Peace Prize and the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize.
His passing has deeply shaken Namibia. President Nangolo Mbumba described him as a leader who “inspired us to rise to our feet and become masters of our land.” Despite his flaws, Sam Nujoma’s role in shaping Namibia’s independence and democratic stability cements his status as an enduring symbol of African liberation. His legacy will live on in the history of Namibia and the broader fight against colonialism in Africa.
