Sam Nujoma, who led Namibia from apartheid rule to independence as its first president, died Saturday night at a hospital in Windhoek. He was 95.
The Namibian Presidency announced his death, saying he had spent three weeks under medical care and observation before succumbing to his illness. The statement described the loss as shaking the nation's foundations, calling him "the most gallant son of our land."
Born May 12, 1929, Nujoma became president when Namibia gained independence in 1990. He served until 2005 when he transferred power to his successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba. His leadership marked a pivotal transition from South African control to self-governance.
South Africa recognized Nujoma's resistance to apartheid rule by awarding him the Order of the Champions of O.R. Tambo in Gold. The honor acknowledged his partnership with South African freedom fighters during their shared struggle against the apartheid regime.
His death comes as Namibia remembers his role in establishing the democratic foundation that guides the nation today.
The Namibian Presidency announced his death, saying he had spent three weeks under medical care and observation before succumbing to his illness. The statement described the loss as shaking the nation's foundations, calling him "the most gallant son of our land."
Born May 12, 1929, Nujoma became president when Namibia gained independence in 1990. He served until 2005 when he transferred power to his successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba. His leadership marked a pivotal transition from South African control to self-governance.
South Africa recognized Nujoma's resistance to apartheid rule by awarding him the Order of the Champions of O.R. Tambo in Gold. The honor acknowledged his partnership with South African freedom fighters during their shared struggle against the apartheid regime.
His death comes as Namibia remembers his role in establishing the democratic foundation that guides the nation today.
