Nandi-Ndaitwah honours Pohamba at 91
Sostenus Wilherm President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has hailed former President Hifikepunye Pohamba as a symbol of sacrifice, service and dedication to Namibia as he celebrates his 91st birthday. In a birthday message, Nandi-Ndaitwah said Pohamba’s 91st birthday provides an opportunity for the nation to reflect on a life closely intertwined with Namibia’s liberation struggle and the […]
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has hailed former President Hifikepunye Pohamba as a symbol of sacrifice, service and dedication to Namibia as he celebrates his 91st birthday.
In a birthday message, Nandi-Ndaitwah said Pohamba’s 91st birthday provides an opportunity for the nation to reflect on a life closely intertwined with Namibia’s liberation struggle and the development of the country after independence.
“At 91, Comrade Pohamba belongs to a generation of Namibians who have known our country in profoundly different times,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
She noted that Pohamba experienced colonial rule, participated in the struggle for national liberation, witnessed Namibia’s independence in 1990 and later served as the country’s second president.
According to Nandi-Ndaitwah, Pohamba’s life represents “a lifetime of service, sacrifice, leadership and devotion to Namibia”, particularly through his involvement as a founding member of SWAPO and his contribution to the liberation struggle.
She said Pohamba carried important responsibilities during some of the most difficult years of the struggle and contributed to advancing Namibia’s cause internationally.
Following independence, Pohamba continued serving the country in various capacities, contributing to the strengthening of democratic institutions and efforts to address the socio-economic challenges inherited from colonial rule.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said his political career eventually saw him entrusted with the highest office in the country, where he provided leadership based on humility, reconciliation, national unity and respect for the rule of law.
“His Presidency contributed to the consolidation of our democracy and the strengthening of institutions upon which succeeding generations continue to build,” she said.
She also highlighted progress made during Pohamba’s presidency in increasing women’s participation in political decision-making, describing it as part of the broader principle that Namibia’s development requires the participation of all its citizens.
Pohamba’s leadership was also recognised internationally when he received the 2014 Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership in 2015.
The award recognised his contribution to national cohesion and reconciliation, democratic consolidation, socio-economic development, human rights and media freedom.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said Pohamba’s greatest legacy should, however, not only be measured by the positions he held or international recognition he received, but by the country he helped shape.
She described him as a living witness to Namibia’s transformation from a country under colonial rule into a sovereign state governed by its own constitution and democratic institutions.
The President said Pohamba’s life should also remind younger Namibians that the freedoms enjoyed today were secured through the courage and sacrifices of previous generations.
She stressed that the responsibility of the current generation is to preserve political freedom while advancing economic independence, creating opportunities for young people, reducing inequality and ensuring that the promise of independence is increasingly felt in the daily lives of Namibians.
“At 91, Comrade Pohamba therefore stands not only as a former head of state, but as a living witness to Namibia’s extraordinary national journey,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
She expressed gratitude for Pohamba’s sacrifices and service, saying it was significant that he remains alive to witness generations of Namibians living in freedom.
On behalf of the Namibian people and the government, Nandi-Ndaitwah wished the former president continued good health, strength, peace and happiness.
She further said Pohamba’s accumulated wisdom should continue to enrich the nation and his life serve as an example to future generations that countries are built through the combined sacrifices and contributions of generations.
“Namibia celebrates you. Namibia honours your service. And Namibia wishes you many more years of good health, peace and happiness,” she said.
