Namibia’s Founding President Sam Nujoma Dies at 95

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first democratically-elected president and a key figure in its independence struggle, has died at the age of 95.

His passing was confirmed on Sunday, 9 February, by President Nangolo Mbumba via Facebook, who announced a period of national mourning.

Nujoma was instrumental in leading Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 after decades of resistance. As the leader of the South West Africa People’s Organisation since 1960, he played a central role in the fight for liberation, eventually becoming the country’s first head of state.

The revered statesman served three terms, stepping down in 2005 and retiring from politics just two years later.

Widely regarded as the “father of the nation,” Nujoma oversaw a peaceful transition to democracy and promoted reconciliation. His leadership helped integrate all communities into post-independence Namibia.

However, his tenure was not without controversy, as his strong anti-Western views and autocratic tendencies shaped his later years.

After retiring, he pursued a master’s degree in geology, believing in Namibia’s untapped mineral wealth. His death has been met with tributes from global leaders, honouring his role in securing Namibia’s freedom and stability. Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.

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