Windhoek: Politicians, executives, and community members gathered at Heroes Acre outside Windhoek on Saturday in remembrance of Namibia's late presidents and liberation icons Sam Nujoma and Hage Geingob.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Nujoma, who passed away on 08 February 2025, and Geingob, who passed away on 04 February 2024, were honoured for their bravery and their fight against oppression for the independence of Namibia.
Speakers who shared their thoughts on how they remember the two liberation icons described their legacies as emerging from bloodshed during anti-colonial struggles, resulting in a renewed call for national and continental unity.
Nujoma led the country for three terms from 1990 to 2005, with Geingob serving as his prime minister until 2002. Geingob later served in the same capacity during former president Hifikepunye Pohamba's term from 2012 to 2015, before being sworn in as Namibia's third president in 2015, a position he held until his passing.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah described February as a month of deep reflection, marking the loss of the two leaders who shaped Namibia's liberation, statehood, and democratic foundations.
She hailed Nujoma as a strategist who spearheaded the political, diplomatic, and military campaign that culminated in independence in 1990, noting his leadership in establishing the People's Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN) and championing national reconciliation after independence.
Nandi Ndaitwah also praised Geingob's role in international diplomacy, constitution building, and public sector reforms, calling him the Father of the Namibian Constitution. She said his presidency strengthened national unity, peace, and governance structures that remain central to the country's stability.
'These two giants, each in his own time and measure, left an indelible mark on Namibia's history,' said Nandi-Ndaitwah, adding that their efforts toward creating an inclusive society free of division must continue to guide the nation.
She extended condolences to both families, saying that although their loss is personal, it is shared by the entire country and beyond.