Namibia’s first president, Sam Nujoma, gave family and friends a glimpse of his early childhood memories on Saturday, when he celebrated his 94th birthday at Etunda in the Omusati region.
He is the oldest surviving nonagenarian former president in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), revered for his contribution to Namibia’s liberation. “It’s here, at oshoto (seating area), where my father used to send me to the salt pan and cattle posts. Our coming here in celebration of my birthday is therefore not a coincidence, but a homecoming to pay homage to my parents and Etunda village, who raised me,” Nujoma said in a speech read on his behalf by the chairperson the Sam Nujoma Foundation, Nahas Angula.
Nujoma arrived outside his traditional homestead to ululation and praise from the audience, while some danced.
Among the speakers was Nujoma’s sister, Julia Iyambo, who read a poem about her eldest brother.
Tributes poured in from various diplomats and local politicians.
Nujoma said Etunda is not only his birthplace, but it is where his roots and values were embedded in him.
His eldest son, Utoni Nujoma, who is also the minister of labour, industrial relations and employment creation, described his father as outstanding, visionary and a pan-African leader.
“We grew up with fondness, knowing our father and mother were there for us all the time. This meant a lot to us,” he said.
Utoni also used the opportunity to thank his mother, Kovambo Nujoma, for standing by his father and assisting him for the past 61 years.
“I wish to single out those who work side by side with our father . . . Indeed, all of you contributed to the man he is today,” Utoni said.
He said his father has been blessed with a long life and good health.
“Not so many are fortunate to live to such an age as he is a dashing young old man at the age of 94.
“Our father taught us discipline, respect for others, our cultural values, as well as the culture of hard work,” Utoni said. Speaking at the same event, businesswoman Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun said Nujoma’s life is a blessing to all Namibians.
“On this day, there is a young person somewhere in Namibia admiring the attributes of Sam Nujoma, and an elder person remembering your greatness,” she said.
Businessman Erastus Shapumba described Nujoma as a selfless leader, saying all national leaders should emulate Nujoma’s example.
Omusati governor Erginus Endjala said Nujoma is a treasure to Namibia and a source of wisdom and inspiration.
Ongandjera chief Johaness Mupiya has urged young people to respect and preserve their cultures and traditions.
“Respect the elders and all leaders. Respect your culture and traditions, and pass it to your children and grandchildren,” he said.
On Friday, president Hage Geingob wished Nujoma a happy birthday, saying: “As we progress towards Vision 2030, we pay homage to this stalwart of our liberation struggle and our founding father.
“Let us be reminded, especially in this year of revival, that ultimately, revolution is an act of hope,” the president said.
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