Namibia is in mourning following the passing of its founding president and liberation hero, Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, who died at the age of 95 on February 8, 2025, in Windhoek. The announcement was made by the current President of Namibia, Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, in a solemn address to the nation on the morning of February 9.
Dr. Nujoma, affectionately known as the “Father of the Namibian Nation,” was a pivotal figure in the country’s struggle for independence from colonial rule. He led the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in a decades-long fight against apartheid South Africa’s occupation, culminating in Namibia’s independence on March 21, 1990. He served as the country’s first president from 1990 to 2005, laying the foundation for a free and democratic Namibia.
In his address, President Mbumba described Dr. Nujoma as a “gallant son of the land” whose life was marked by extraordinary leadership and sacrifice. “Our Founding Father heroically marshaled the Namibian people during the darkest hours of our liberation struggle,” he said. “He not only blazed the trail to freedom but also inspired us to rise and become masters of this vast land of our ancestors.”
Dr. Nujoma had been hospitalized for three weeks prior to his passing, receiving medical treatment and observation for an undisclosed illness. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he succumbed to his condition at 23:45 on February 8.
Tributes have poured in from across the nation and the globe, honoring Dr. Nujoma’s legacy as a freedom fighter, statesman, and unifying leader. His contributions to Namibia’s liberation, nation-building, and Pan-Africanism have left an indelible mark on the country’s history.
President Mbumba expressed gratitude to the medical team that cared for Dr. Nujoma during his final days and thanked Namibians and the international community for their outpouring of support and prayers. He also extended his condolences to Dr. Nujoma’s family, including the Founding First Lady, Her Excellency Kovambo Nujoma, and their children.
“The Government of the Republic of Namibia will announce a period of national mourning and burial arrangements following consultations with the Nujoma and Kondombolo family,” President Mbumba said.
