Geingob celebrates Nujoma
By Confidente reporter
PRESIDENT Hage Geingob paid tribute to the founding father of the Namibian nation, Sam Nujoma on his 91st birthday describing him as a distinguished son of the Namibian soil.
Speaking on the occasion, Geingob said, “He is indeed a distinguished son of the Namibian soil, an extraordinary first wave leader of our revolution, a visionary and fearless leader of our continent.”
He said, upon attainment of independence, Nujoma as the first President of the republic had the insurmountable responsibility to unite the nation, a nation divided by war and on tribal lines as a result of laws of apartheid.
“The policy of National Reconciliation adopted during the Presidency of Nujoma contributed greatly in uniting the people of Namibia and paved the way for the peace and stability that Namibia is enjoying today,” Geingob stated.
He added that Nujoma’s leadership and the collective sacrifices made by many Namibians in pursuit of freedom and independence of the Motherland should be a reminder about the long journey travelled.
“This day should serve as a reminder that we have not come this far to become complacent, but to continue the fight against challenges facing our nation,” Geingob said.
He went on to say that over the years, 12 May has been characterised by Namibians from all walks of life coming together to celebrate Nujoma’s birthday and this year his birthday is being celebrated at a time when the country and the rest of the world are grappling to contain and stop the spread of COVID-19.
He said that the best gift Namibia can give to Nujoma is to emulate his leadership and perseverance by being leaders in their own rights, leading the way in the fight to stop the spread of this deadly virus in the country.
He said, “We will continue with your legacy of self-less leadership. On behalf of the Namibian people and the
government, I wish you, Comrade Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation, continued health and a happy 91st Birthday.”
He further added that, the 12th of May is a significant day to remember for Namibians reflecting on his uncompromising leadership during and after the liberation struggle for Namibia’s independence.
He said, Nujoma led the armed struggle during difficult times. Despite that, the leadership of SWAPO mobilised resources for military activities, political and diplomatic wings as well as for the education of Namibians in exile.
“This prepared Namibians to take over the running of the affairs of their country upon independence. Many Namibians, especially those who were in the leadership of SWAPO, including myself, benefited greatly from Nujoma’s leadership, wisdom and mentorship during the liberation struggle and after independence,” he said.