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PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – Hon Senator Chief Fortune Charumbira, the President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) today delivered a touching tribute at the memorial service of the late former President of Namibia, HE Dr. Sam Nujoma held in Pretoria, South Africa.
Below, Spiked Online Media reproduces Chief Charumbira’s tribute to the late President Nujoma:
INTRODUCTION
Today, we stand united in solemn reverence and profound reflection, bound by our collective memory of a man whose life, leadership, and legacy have indelibly shaped not only the course of Namibian history but the broader narrative of Africa’s liberation, unity, and progress.
We are here today to commemorate and pay tribute to His Excellency, Dr. Sam Nujoma, the Founding Father of the Republic of Namibia, a tireless Pan-Africanist, a stalwart of African liberation, a champion of freedom, democracy, and justice and an unshakable advocate for peace, unity, and prosperity across our continent.
As we congregate here today, to pay homage to this great man, we are reminded of the profound words of the renowned African liberation leader, Kwame Nkrumah, who once said, “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.”
President Sam Nujoma exemplified this profound truth and embodied this spirit, for he was a leader whose life was defined by the unyielding pursuit of the greater good for Africa, by a visionary commitment to unity, and by the resolute conviction that the emancipation of one must be the liberation of all.
Indeed, H. E Nujoma’s life was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, to the strength of unity, and to the relentless pursuit of justice and freedom.
A VISIONARY ARCHITECT OF LIBERATION:
HE Sam Nujoma’s life journey from the humble village of Ombadja to the pinnacle of political leadership was not only a testament to his personal resilience but to the power of vision and determination. His commitment to the ideals of liberty, sovereignty, and human dignity catalyzed the liberation of Namibia and positioned him as an unwavering advocate for the decolonization of Southern Africa and beyond.
His rapid trajectory to the heights of global recognition, speaks to the profound qualities of transformative His vision for a free, democratic, and prosperous Namibia never wavered, even in the face of immense adversity. In the face of apartheid, colonialism, and the forces of oppression that sought to fragment and destroy the spirit of his people, Nujoma stood resolute.
In the face of colonialism’s brutalities, apartheid’s abhorrent iniquities, and the entrenched forces of oppression that sought to stifle the spirit of a nation, President Nujoma stood as an unshakeable pillar of resistance.
His vision for an independent Namibia was one that transcended mere political It was a vision for a self-reliant, just, and thriving nation. As the first President of Namibia, he shaped not only the destiny of his people but became a beacon of hope for those on the front lines of Africa’s liberation struggles.
He instilled within the hearts of his people the understanding that true freedom could only be achieved when a nation is united, self-reliant, and sovereign. He understood that liberation was not only about the end of physical occupation but the empowerment of the mind, the soul, and the people. His leadership, unwavering and unyielding, transcended borders and inspired millions.
PRESIDENT NUJOMA’S LEGACY EXTENDS BEYOND NAMIBIA
I stand here today as President of the Pan-African Parliament, precisely because President Nujoma’s legacy extends far beyond Namibia’s borders. His unrelenting commitment to the advancement of African unity was a cornerstone of his leadership, for he understood that the strength of a liberated Africa lay in its collective will and solidarity.
At a time when many African nations were still shackled by the remnants of colonialism, H.E. Dr. Nujoma stood steadfast as both a symbol and an active participant in the broader Pan-African movement.
President Nujoma’s contributions to the independence struggles of neighboring countries, particularly Angola, Zimbabwe, and South Africa were nothing short of heroic. He was a brother to all African countries seeking self-determination and freedom from colonial and imperial oppression.
His support was not merely a matter of diplomatic solidarity but a strategic commitment to the principle that the freedom of any African nation is intrinsically tied to the freedom of all. His leadership exemplified the true essence of Pan-Africanism, the true spirit of Ubuntu “I AM BECAUSE WE ARE.”
LEGACY OF EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP AND NATIONAL TRANSFORMATION:
The presidency of Sam Nujoma from 1990 to 2005 marked a transformative era for Namibia. Under his stewardship, Namibia became an exemplar of democratic governance, political stability, and sustainable development in Africa. His administration was marked by the careful crafting of policies that sought to redress historical injustices while fostering inclusivity and equity.
In the domains of education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation, President Nujoma’s government laid the foundation for a prosperous Yet, his leadership was not just about the material advancement of Namibia; it was about cultivating a national identity founded on the principles of justice, dignity, and unity. Through his governance, Namibia did not simply achieve independence; it created the conditions for its people to thrive and to contribute meaningfully to the broader African renaissance.
Globally, President Nujoma’s impact extended well beyond his domestic responsibilities. As a vocal advocate for Africa’s rightful place in the international community, he played a critical role in strengthening multilateral institutions such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). He was unflinching in his belief that Africa’s collective voice must be heard on the global stage and that only through unity could the continent overcome its myriad challenges.
Beyond Namibia’s borders, President Nujoma’s contributions to the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the Non-Aligned Movement will forever be He understood the importance of multilateralism, and through his efforts, Africa became stronger on the global stage.
A MAN OF PRINCIPLE, INTEGRITY, AND UNCOMPROMISING COMMITMENT
While many may focus on the achievements and policies of H.E. Nujoma’s leadership, perhaps the most enduring aspect of his legacy is not merely in the policies he championed or the institutions he built, but rather President Nujoma’s greatness is reflected in his personal integrity, his unshakeable belief in the values of justice, equality, and freedom, and in his lifelong commitment to the ideals of African liberation.
He was a man whose character and principles were unwavering, and whose commitment to justice and equality remained steadfast throughout his life. His leadership was never swayed by expediency or the pressures of power but was grounded in an unshakeable sense of duty to his people and to the ideals of liberation that had inspired his early life.
He led with the courage of his convictions, making decisions that, while sometimes difficult, were always made with the best interests of his people at heart. His humility, despite his monumental achievements, and his unwavering faith in the potential of Africa, remain an inspiration for us all.
CONCLUSION
In honouring the memory of H.E. Sam Nujoma today, we do so with respect and deepest gratitude for his indelible contributions to the freedom, progress, and unity of Namibia and Africa and a renewed commitment to the ideals for which he lived. His legacy is not only enshrined in the independence and success of Namibia but in the hearts of all who believe in the power of unity, justice, and freedom.
His life was a beacon of hope and a reminder that true leadership is not measured by titles or accolades, but by the lasting impact one has on the lives of others and on the future of their nation.
I am reminded of the words of American General, Douglas MacArthur, who said: “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.
May his legacy inspire us to continue building upon the foundation he laid, ensuring that his vision of an Africa that is free, united, and prosperous, becomes a reality for all generations to come. May his dear departed soul rest in eternal peace.
