Cuba declares three days of mourning in honour of Nujoma

Cuban president Miguel Díaz-Canel has declared a three-day mourning period from 10 February in honour of late founding president Sam Nujoma, describing him as “a dear friend of Cuba”.

Nujoma died at a Windhoek hospital on Saturday. He was 95 years old.

Díaz-Canel said in a statement that Nujoma demonstrated a lifelong special affection for Cuba and support for the Cuban Revolution, from the time he led Namibians in the struggle for independence and later, when he became the president.

The Cuban president further described the late Nujoma as a fervent promoter of solidarity and cooperation with Cuba, saying he never ceased his appreciation of Cuba’s contribution to the struggles for the liberation of Africa and the end of apartheid.

“The Cuban people and government will always be grateful for his support in the fight against the blockade. In 1991 he was awarded the Order of José Marti, the highest distinction granted by the state,” Díaz-Canel said.

He also noted that during the mourning period, the Cuban national flag will be flown at half-mast on public buildings and military institutions, while public shows and festive activities are suspended.

“The Cuban party, government and people extend their most heartfelt condolences to the people and government of the sister republic of Namibia, family and friends,” he said.