Namibia is mourning the loss of its founding president, Sam Nujoma, who passed away at the age of 95 after a prolonged illness. President Nangolo Mbumba made the announcement on Sunday, describing Nujoma as a revered freedom fighter and a revolutionary leader who played a crucial role in Namibia’s independence struggle.

Born in 1929 to poor farmers in the Ovambo tribe, Nujoma was the eldest of ten children. He took up a job as a railway sweeper near Windhoek in 1949 while pursuing his education through night classes. His early exposure to politics came through Herero tribal chief Hosea Kutako, a key figure in the anti-apartheid movement, who became his mentor. Nujoma quickly became a prominent voice among black workers resisting South African rule in the late 1950s.

In 1960, he was elected president of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), marking the beginning of a decades-long struggle for Namibian independence. Forced into exile, Nujoma traveled extensively, seeking international support against South Africa’s continued occupation of Namibia. SWAPO launched an armed struggle in 1966 after South Africa defied a United Nations directive to relinquish control over the territory, arguing it was necessary to prevent the spread of communism in the region.

Under Nujoma’s leadership, Namibia finally achieved independence in 1990, making it one of the last African nations to do so. He won the country’s first democratic election that same year and served three terms as president, overseeing economic growth and political stability. However, his administration faced criticism over human rights abuses, particularly regarding SWAPO members accused of collaborating with apartheid-era South Africa. He also made controversial remarks against homosexuality, once referring to it as "madness" and threatening legal action against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Fmr Late South African Leader, Nelson Mandela with Late Sam Nujoma

Despite these criticisms, Nujoma’s legacy as a nation-builder remains undisputed. His successor, President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, lauded his "visionary leadership and dedication to liberation and nation-building," while President Mbumba praised him for inspiring Namibians to "become masters of their own land." Nujoma officially retired from politics in 2007, though he remained an influential figure in Namibian affairs.

As Namibia prepares to honor its founding leader, tributes have poured in from across Africa and beyond, recognizing his role in shaping the nation’s history. A state funeral is expected to be announced in the coming days.