President William Ruto on Sunday, February 9, 2025, penned a moving tribute following the passing of Sam Nujoma, the guerrilla leader who became Namibia’s first democratically elected president after it won its independence from apartheid South Africa.
In a statement on X, Ruto described the deceased as a selfless, courageous and visionary leader who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of his country.
The head of state termed the late Nujoma Africa’s hero while extending his thoughts to his family as they struggled to come to terms with the demise.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Namibia in mourning the passing away of their founding President Dr Sam Nujoma. President Nujoma was a selfless, courageous and visionary leader who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of his country.
“Our thoughts and love are with the family and the people of Namibia at this time of grief.
“Rest In Peace, Africa’s hero!” Ruto’s statement read in part.
Pronounced dead
Nujoma was pronounced dead by the country’s presidency on Sunday, February 9, 2025. Nujoma who rose to head the thinly populated southern African country on March 21, 1990, was 95 years old.
The presidency added that Nujoma was battling an illness which led to his hospitalisation three weeks ago. Unfortunately, he succumbed to it.
“The foundations of the Republic of Namibia have been shaken,” the presidency posted on X.
“Our venerable leader, Dr. Nujoma did not only blaze the trail to freedom – but he also inspired us to rise to our feet and to become masters of this vast land of our ancestors.”
The presidency said Nujoma had been hospitalised for medical treatment over the past three weeks, adding: “Unfortunately, this time, the most gallant son of our land could not recover from his illness.”
Legacy
Nujoma served his three terms as president from 1990 to 2005 and sought to project himself as a unifying leader bridging political divides.
His achievements included establishing democratic institutions and prioritising reconciliation.
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