Sam Nujoma, Namibia's Liberation Leader and First President, Dies at 95.
Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, who led Namibia's fight for independence and served as its first president, died Saturday night in Windhoek at the age of 95.
President Nangolo Mbumba shared news of his death, noting Nujoma passed away at 23:45 after three weeks of medical care. "This marks a moment of utmost sorrow and sadness," Mbumba said.
Born May 12, 1929, Nujoma rose to prominence as the founding leader of SWAPO, steering Namibia through its independence struggle until freedom came on March 21, 1990. He then guided the nation as president from 1990 to 2005, building its democratic institutions and fostering economic growth.
His time as president proved crucial for establishing Namibia's place among world nations. A firm believer in Pan-African ideals, Nujoma earned respect across the continent for championing African liberation and economic self-determination.
President Mbumba praised Nujoma as "the most gallant son of our land" and thanked the medical team that cared for him in his final days. He also expressed his sympathy with Former First Lady Kovambo Nujoma, Hon. Utoni Nujoma, and their extended family.
The government plans to declare an official mourning period and will work with the family to arrange funeral services. Mbumba urged citizens to remember how Nujoma "blazed the trail to freedom" and inspired Namibians to take control of their ancestral lands.
Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, who led Namibia's fight for independence and served as its first president, died Saturday night in Windhoek at the age of 95.
President Nangolo Mbumba shared news of his death, noting Nujoma passed away at 23:45 after three weeks of medical care. "This marks a moment of utmost sorrow and sadness," Mbumba said.
Born May 12, 1929, Nujoma rose to prominence as the founding leader of SWAPO, steering Namibia through its independence struggle until freedom came on March 21, 1990. He then guided the nation as president from 1990 to 2005, building its democratic institutions and fostering economic growth.
His time as president proved crucial for establishing Namibia's place among world nations. A firm believer in Pan-African ideals, Nujoma earned respect across the continent for championing African liberation and economic self-determination.
President Mbumba praised Nujoma as "the most gallant son of our land" and thanked the medical team that cared for him in his final days. He also expressed his sympathy with Former First Lady Kovambo Nujoma, Hon. Utoni Nujoma, and their extended family.
The government plans to declare an official mourning period and will work with the family to arrange funeral services. Mbumba urged citizens to remember how Nujoma "blazed the trail to freedom" and inspired Namibians to take control of their ancestral lands.
