COSATU mourns the death of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding President who died at age 95. Nujoma led Namibia to independence in 1990, played a vital role in the anti-colonial movement, and served as president for three terms. COSATU expresses condolences to his family and the Namibian people, acknowledging the historical bonds between liberation movements in Southern Africa.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) expresses deep sorrow over the demise of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding President, who passed away at the age of 95 after a brief hospitalization. Nujoma’s legacy as a freedom fighter and leader played a pivotal role in Namibia’s struggle for independence, culminating in his presidency following the nation’s liberation from colonial rule in 1990.
Born Samuel Shafishuna Daniel Nujoma on May 12, 1929, in northern Namibia, he was the first of 11 siblings. His early life included responsibilities like herding cattle during Namibia’s period as a German colony administered by apartheid South Africa. Nujoma received his initial education at a Finnish Missionary school, paving the path for his political activities.
At 17, he began working as a contract laborer in Walvis Bay, later becoming politically active as a cleaner for the South African Railways in Windhoek in 1949. In 1959, he co-founded the Ovamboland People’s Organisation, marking a significant shift in resistance against colonialism. Following a violent protest resulting in casualties, Nujoma sought exile in 1960, during which the organization transitioned into the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), with Nujoma as the first President.
SWAPO initiated a military struggle against South African occupation in 1967, leading to a prolonged conflict that lasted more than twenty years. Despite the losses endured by many, Nujoma’s leadership saw him assume the presidency of Namibia post-independence, where he emphasized national reconciliation and unity akin to the efforts of Nelson Mandela in South Africa.
Throughout his presidency, Nujoma served three terms, facilitated by a constitutional amendment favoring his leadership. He stepped down from SWAPO leadership in 2007, earning the title of Founding Father of Namibia, and is remembered fondly for his contributions. COSATU recognizes the profound loss to SWAPO and the entire Namibian nation, underscoring the historical bonds forged in the collective liberation struggles of Southern Africa.
COSATU extends heartfelt condolences to Nujoma’s family and the broader Namibian community. The organization acknowledges that the legacies of figures like Nujoma are crucial in nurturing the solidarity among the peoples of the region as they move forward together. Lala kahle Qhawe!
Sam Nujoma played a crucial role in Namibia’s struggle for independence from colonial rule. His work with SWAPO and emphasis on national reconciliation transformed the political landscape of Namibia post-independence. Nujoma’s contributions have shaped Namibia’s identity, aligning with broader anti-colonial movements in Southern Africa, which were aimed at dismantling apartheid and fostering regional integration among liberation movements.
In summary, Sam Nujoma’s passing marks a significant loss for Namibia and the liberation community. His enduring legacy as a resistance leader and founding president demonstrates the importance of unity and reconciliation in nation-building. COSATU’s expression of condolences reflects the strong ties that exist between Namibian and South African liberation struggles, emphasizing ongoing solidarity in the region.
Original Source: mediadon.co.za
