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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 26332, member: 2262"] Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa lavished passionate praise on founding president Sam Nujoma during the seventh memorial service at Keetmanshoop! Mutorwa declared Nujoma represented the very essence of Namibia's liberation struggle, highlighting his remarkable vision that extended far beyond merely achieving independence. Nujoma's body arrived dramatically at Keetmanshoop Wednesday morning after being airlifted from Walvis Bay International Airport. A gathering of dignitaries, including Mutorwa, regional executive leadership, Swapo leaders, and community members, welcomed the remains with profound respect. Mutorwa revealed intimate details from his 15 years serving in Nujoma's administration! The late president once took officials to the Orange River border between Namibia and South Africa, demanding they observe the stark difference between the lush South African side and Namibia's rocky terrain. "He wanted us to emulate them and turn our dry land into a luscious green land," Mutorwa exclaimed. The visionary leader negotiated fiercely with Dusan Vasiljevic, convincing him to donate portions of what became Aussenkehr for Namibians to produce fruits and vegetables. Swapo //Kharas coordinator Matthew Mumbala emphasized Nujoma's dedication, revealing the founding father spent four nights at Aussenkehr just to ensure Namibians joined the mainstream economy! This agricultural revolution transformed the region completely! Aussenkehr farm houses over six grape companies today, employing approximately 12,000 people year-round and swelling to 17,000 during harvest periods. The National Youth Service alone provides jobs for about 2,000 young Namibians through the Namibia Grape Company. The economic impact proved substantial! Last December, Namibia exported grapes worth an astounding N$815.4 million, primarily to The Netherlands and the United Kingdom. These exports contributed significantly to Namibia's December 2024 export earnings of N$12.6 billion, marking a 3.4% increase from November! Chief Johannes Isaak of the /Hai-/Haua Traditional Authority described Nujoma's visits as characterized by tremendous respect for traditional authorities. "The founding president always made time to engage with traditional authorities," Isaak declared, emphasizing Nujoma's dedication to preserving Indigenous customs. Family representative Matti Asino delivered a heartfelt plea for unity and dedication - qualities that defined Nujoma's leadership. "We have to work as one unit. March as one, as the army does. Let us have the tenacity Nujoma had to continue working. Let us not be selfish and continue in peace," Asino implored the gathered mourners. [/QUOTE]

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