Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president, died at 95, known for leading the nation to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. He was a prominent figure of SWAPO, holding various leadership roles until retirement. Nujoma’s influence continued post-presidency, marked by historical advocacy and controversial positions on social issues. He is celebrated nationally through currency and monuments.
Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president, passed away on Saturday at the age of 95. Revered for his role in leading Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990, he founded the South West Peoples’ Organisation (SWAPO) and supervised the liberation struggle beginning in 1960. Nujoma relinquished presidential power in 2005 but remained an influential figure in Namibian politics until his death.
As a beloved and symbolic leader, Nujoma’s face appears on Namibian currency, and he is honored with a towering statue outside the Independence Museum in Windhoek. This towering figure was not only a national hero but also an icon in Southern Africa, with streets in various countries named in his honor. His last notable public appearance was during an Africa Day event in 2022, demonstrating his lasting presence in national consciousness.
Throughout his life, Nujoma was vocal about Namibia’s historical injustices. He criticized Germany’s one-billion-euro compensation offer for colonial atrocities, labeling it as “woefully insignificant” and advocating for renewed negotiations regarding colonial era accounts. His often stern demeanor was marked by strong denunciations of former South African authorities, whom he described in derogatory terms.
Nujoma’s presidency was characterized by controversial positions, such as supporting Robert Mugabe’s land reform policies in Zimbabwe and maintaining relations with certain autocratic regimes. However, his comments on LGBTQ+ issues drew criticism, particularly his statement labeling homosexuality as “madness” and threatening arrest for such individuals. His administration also faced scrutiny for treatment of SWAPO fighters imprisoned in Angola.
Born into a family of poor farmers, Nujoma’s political consciousness began during his formative years in a black township in Walvis Bay. His first job was as a railway sweeper, striving for education while becoming politically active. Influenced by Herero tribal chief Hosea Kutako, he began a life of exile in 1960 as SWAPO’s president, eventually orchestrating a modest armed struggle.
On concluding his presidency, he pursued a master’s degree in geology, reflecting his belief in the untapped mineral resources within Namibia’s mountains. Nujoma’s enduring legacy as a liberator and activist will continue to shape Namibia’s identity and history long after his passing.
Sam Nujoma’s political journey began against the backdrop of apartheid rule, where he experienced firsthand the inequities faced by black Namibians. His leadership in SWAPO was pivotal during the anti-colonial struggle, ultimately resulting in Namibia’s independence in 1990. As a figure of national pride, he shaped not only political policies but also the collective identity of the Namibian people. After stepping down from the presidency, Nujoma remained a respected elder statesman, continuing to influence discussions on national issues, including historical reparations and social policies.
The death of Sam Nujoma marks the end of an era for Namibia, symbolizing its fight for freedom from colonial rule. Nujoma’s legacy includes his fight for independence, controversial political stances, and commitment to addressing historical injustices. His life’s work not only defined his political career but also had a lasting impact on Namibia’s identity, making him an enduring national figure.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
