First President of Namibia, Sam Nujoma, Passes Away at 95

Sam Nujoma, the first president of Namibia whose leadership played a pivotal role in the country's quest for independence, has died at the age of 95 in the capital, Windhoek. The news was confirmed by Namibia's current president, Nangolo Mbumba, who expressed deep sorrow regarding Nujoma's passing. Nujoma was instrumental in founding the South West Peoples' Organisation (Swapo) in 1960, which spearheaded the struggle for independence from South African rule in 1990.

Upon the establishment of Namibia as an independent nation, Nujoma was elected as its first president, serving from 1990 to 2005. Recently, he had been hospitalized for an illness that he ultimately could not overcome. President Mbumba praised Nujoma as an inspirational figure who encouraged the Namibian people to reclaim their heritage and become stewards of their land.

Mbumba reflected on Nujoma’s lengthy and impactful life, emphasizing the significant contributions he made to the nation he cherished. Although he stepped down from the presidency in 2005, Nujoma remained an influential leader within the Swapo party until his resignation as party president in 2007, after nearly half a century of leadership.

Nujoma's passing marks the end of an era for Namibia, with his legacy profoundly shaping the nation's identity and its journey towards self-governance.