Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s Founding Father, Passes Away at 95

Sam Nujoma, the founding president of independent Namibia, renowned for his leadership in the struggle for liberation, died on Saturday at the age of 95 in Windhoek, confirmed by the current Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba.

Sam Nujoma, the architect of Namibia's independence and its first president, has died at the age of 95. Nujoma's passing was confirmed by current President Nangolo Mbumba, who announced the tragic news on Sunday. Although the cause of death has not been disclosed, it was noted that Nujoma had been hospitalized for several weeks prior.

Nujoma is celebrated for his pivotal role in leading the South-West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO) during Namibia's protracted struggle against colonial rule and apartheid. He directed a guerrilla army backed by foreign powers, particularly the Soviet Union and Cuba, in a largely asymmetrical conflict against the forces of South Africa. His commitment to liberating Namibia, a territory previously under German colonial rule, characterized his political life.

Under his leadership, SWAPO was instrumental in rallying the Namibian population during some of the darkest periods of the struggle for liberation. Following years of diplomatic struggles and military resistance, Namibia finally achieved independence in March 1990 through a United States-mediated agreement. This resolved the conflict with South Africa, who withdrew their military in exchange for a Cuban troop pullout from Angola.

Despite the fervor of his cause, Nujoma was more of a visionary leader than a combatant, having adopted the nom de guerre Shafiishuna, meaning "Lightning," although there are no records of him directly engaging in combat. His leadership was integral to Namibia's transition from colonial rule to independence, paving the way for his subsequent election as the nation's first president.

In remembrance of Nujoma's contributions and enduring legacy, President Mbumba announced that a period of national mourning would soon be declared, honoring this iconic figure in Namibian history.