Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father and first president, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95. His death was announced by current President Nangolo Mbumba, who noted that Nujoma had been hospitalized in Windhoek for the past three weeks due to illness. Mbumba stated, “The foundations of the Republic of Namibia have been shaken.”
Born on May 12, 1929, in Ongandjera, Ovamboland, Nujoma was a pivotal figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from South African rule. He co-founded the Ovamboland People’s Organization in 1959, which later evolved into the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO). As SWAPO’s leader, Nujoma spearheaded a guerrilla war against apartheid South Africa, leading to Namibia’s independence on March 21, 1990.
Nujoma served as Namibia’s president for three terms, from 1990 to 2005. His tenure was marked by efforts toward national reconciliation and the establishment of democratic institutions. He promoted the motto “One Namibia, One Nation” to foster unity among the country’s diverse populations. However, his legacy is complex, with criticisms over his intolerance of critical media, opposition to homosexuality, and autocratic tendencies, including a constitutional amendment that allowed him to run for a third term.
Internationally, Nujoma was recognized as a significant figure in the fight against colonialism and apartheid. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described him as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” who played a leading role not only in Namibia’s liberation but also in ending white-minority rule in South Africa.
Namibia will observe a period of national mourning to honor Nujoma’s contributions to the nation’s independence and development. His passing marks the end of an era of liberation leaders in southern Africa, following figures like Nelson Mandela and Robert Mugabe.
