Message of Condolence by Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, on the Passing of Ambassador Legwaila Joseph Legwaila of the Republic of Botswana 

It is with profound sorrow that I, on behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Namibia, extend our deepest condolences to His Excellency President Duma Gideon Boko, the Government and the people of the Republic of Botswana, and the bereaved family on the passing of Ambassador Legwaila Joseph Legwaila, a towering diplomat, a son of Africa, and a true friend of Namibia.

Namibia will forever remember Ambassador Legwaila for the pivotal role he played in our country’s journey to independence, particularly during his service as Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General under the United Nations Transition Assistance Group. His calm diplomacy, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to peace helped steer Namibia through one of the most delicate moments in our history, ensuring that our transition to independence was peaceful, just, and credible.

Ambassador Legwaila’s contribution transcended duty. It was an act of brotherhood and African solidarity. He stood with Namibia not as an outsider, but as one of us, an African devoted to the cause of freedom and human dignity. His close friendship with our Founding Prime Minister, the late Dr. Hage G. Geingob, and our Founding Minister of Foreign Affairs, the late Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab, reflected the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation that anchored the liberation movements of our region.

As a nation, we share in the grief of Botswana and the Legwaila family at the passing of this great son of Africa. His name will forever be etched in the story of Namibia’s freedom and in the enduring friendship between our two nations.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to serve Africa with integrity, humility, and vision.