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Sam Nujoma, celebrated as the “father of the nation” and a key figure in Namibia’s liberation struggle, passed away recently at the age of 95. His approachable demeanor and genuine warmth made him a beloved leader among many Namibians.
Nujoma’s commitment to connecting with people was evident in his informal engagements, whether participating in community events, such as fun-runs, or distancing himself from the protocol of official motorcades.
His death comes four decades after a pivotal role in leading Namibia through a tumultuous guerrilla war against apartheid South Africa that spanned several years, culminating in Namibia’s independence. President Nangolo Mbumba announced Nujoma’s passing, revealing that he had been hospitalized for three weeks, and noted that the news had deeply affected the nation.
Fighting for Freedom
Nujoma’s legacy leaves a significant void in Namibia’s national fabric. The country, previously known as South West Africa, suffered extensive colonial exploitation and violence. Beginning in 1904, German colonial powers inflicted suffering and death upon the Namibian people, a dark chapter now recognized as the “forgotten genocide.” Following World War I, the region fell under South African rule, where apartheid laws stripped black Namibians of their rights and freedoms.
The fight for independence erupted in 1966, a movement that Nujoma joined passionately. Born into a peasant family in the northern village of Etunda with a modest education, Nujoma was inspired by early resistance fighters and was deeply moved by the injustice experienced by his people. In 1959, he emerged as a leader of the Owamboland Peoples Organisation, a precursor to the South West African People’s Organization (Swapo).
His activism took him into exile in 1960, where he navigated various dangers to reach international platforms, advocating for Namibia’s independence at the United Nations, despite South Africa’s opposition. Branded a “Marxist terrorist” by South African authorities, he continued the resistance alongside anti-apartheid movements, ultimately contributing to military actions against South African forces.
Following years of struggle, Nujoma returned to Namibia in 1989, shortly before the country gained independence in 1990.
Building a Nation
As Namibia’s first president, following Swapo’s sweeping electoral victory, Nujoma prioritized child welfare through new legislation ensuring that absent fathers contributed to the upbringing of their children. He also advanced women’s rights, pushing back against ingrained patriarchal customs.
Nujoma’s leadership style, however, drew criticism. His government faced accusations of authoritarianism, particularly as he altered the constitution to secure a third presidential term. While he maintained a fierce loyalty to his party, he was also known for his contentious responses to critiques, sometimes resorting to insults.
Despite contradictions in his governance, Nujoma’s achievements during his presidency were notable, leading Namibia into a relatively prosperous phase characterized by democratic elections. Under his leadership, Namibia established a foundation for national reconciliation, even encouraging the country’s white populace to stay and participate in rebuilding the nation’s economy.
His tenure earned him the honorary title of “Founding Father of Namibia” from the parliament in recognition of his instrumental role in national unity among the country’s diverse ethnic communities. Nujoma received numerous international accolades throughout his life for his contributions to peace and leadership.
In his later years, he chose to step back from public life, dedicating time to his family. His legacy, however, remains indelible as a leader who not only led a successful fight for freedom but also played a pivotal role in shaping the modern Namibian state.
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www.bbc.com