By James Kunda
LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) - Namibia’s founding President Sam Nujoma passed away at the age of 95, the Southern African nation’s president announced on Sunday.
Nujoma died in the capital Windhoek, where he was hospitalized for medical treatment and observation, President Nangolo Mbumba said in a statement.
His time of death was confirmed as 11.45 pm local time (2145GMT) Saturday night, he added.
“Our founding father lived a long and consequential life during which he exceptionally served the people of his beloved country. Our founding father heroically marshaled the Namibian people during the darkest hours of our liberation struggle until the attainment of freedom and independence (from Germany) on March 21, 1990,” Mbumba said, adding the government will announce a period of national mourning and burial arrangements.
Nujoma was among the last surviving frontline heads of state that greatly contributed to the region’s emancipation from colonial rule after the death of others such as Zambia’s Kenneth Kaunda and South Africa’s Nelson Mandela.
Reacting to Nujoma’s passing, Kenyan President William Ruto said his country stood in solidarity with the people of Namibia in mourning.
“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,” Ruto said on Facebook.
Namibia’s President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said: “His visionary leadership and dedication to liberation and nation-building laid the foundation for our free, united nation. Let us honor his legacy by upholding resilience, solidarity, and selfless service."