RUNDU, President Hage Geingob of Namibia has announced a State Funeral for the late Gosbert Sikerete Mandema, a prominent figure in the country’s liberation struggle, who passed away on November 18, 2023. The President’s office released a statement on Wednesday, paying tribute to Mandema’s significant contributions.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), Geingob recognized Mandema as a pioneering veteran who played a crucial role in the political mobilization of Namibians in the Kavango and Zambezi regions during the early 1960s. Mandema’s efforts included facilitating communication through the Botswana Post Office to bypass postal scrutiny from Namibia, an action that significantly aided the liberation movement.

Mandema, who was detained for 21 days in the 1970s due to his liberation activities, also served as the Mayor of Rundu from 2007 to 2011. President Geingob extended his heartfelt condolences to Mandema’s widow, Elizabeth Shamuhembo, their children, and the entire family, honoring the late leader’s legacy and contribution to Namibia’s struggle for independence.