Ifirst met Sam Nujoma in Lusaka in 1974, along with a number of young Namibians who had left the country to join the fight for freedom. Like many others, I had known of him from a young age—his name was already deeply woven into the consciousness of those who yearned for an independent Namibia.
Two years later, in 1976, I was among a group of young Namibians who traveled to Finland on a scholarship provided by the Finnish government through SWAPO. During my time there, President Nujoma visited Finland and other Nordic countries, tirelessly rallying support for Namibia’s struggle against the illegal occupation by the apartheid regime of South Africa. As the head of SWAPO students in Finland, I often had the privilege of accompanying him to meetings and engagements with the Finnish community. It was during these moments that I saw firsthand the qualities that made him not just a leader but also a father figure to those of us who had left our families behind.
The Man Behind the Leader
Sam Nujoma was the kind of person any parent would want their child to emulate. He was disciplined, hardworking, empathetic, and inclusive. He had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of age, background, or political persuasion. He valued relationships and never forgot those who contributed to Namibia’s cause. His gift for networking and building trust played a pivotal role in garnering global support for SWAPO’s mission. He was, simply put, a good person.
For those of us far from home, he became a source of security, hope, and inspiration. He reassured us in our darkest moments, urged us to stay focused, and instilled in us the determination to persevere.
A Visionary Leader
Sam Nujoma was not just a revolutionary figure—he was a leader of rare foresight, decisiveness, and diplomacy. His strategic acumen and unwavering commitment ensured that SWAPO emerged victorious in the fight for Namibia’s liberation. His leadership was democratic and inspiring, yet firm and tactical when it needed to be.
At independence in 1990, he appointed me as the first Permanent Secretary (now Executive Director) of the Ministry of Mines and Energy. In this role, I had the honour of leading the government’s negotiations with De Beers to transform Consolidated Diamond Mines (CDM) into Namdeb, ensuring that Namibia had greater control over its diamond industry. Later, in 1995, he entrusted me with the leadership of SWAWEK, which I had the opportunity to transform into NamPower. Through these roles, I had many interactions with President Nujoma on matters related to mining and energy. His vision was clear—Namibia’s resources had to benefit its people, and electricity had to reach even the most remote corners of the country.
A Champion of Economic Development
Beyond politics, President Nujoma played a crucial role in shaping Namibia’s economic landscape. As President of the Namibian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) in 2000, I had the opportunity to accompany him on numerous foreign state visits, where he promoted Namibia as a prime investment destination. He ensured that Namibian business leaders were part of discussions with visiting heads of state, recognising the importance of fostering economic relationships.
I witnessed his unwavering commitment to development through projects such as the Epupa Hydropower Station, table grape farming along the Orange River, and the Green Schemes aimed at boosting Namibia’s agricultural production. His dedication to economic self-sufficiency was driven by a deep love for his country and its people.
A Unifier and a Statesman
Above all, Nujoma was a unifier. He led with kindness, decisiveness, and inspiration, always prioritising the nation’s unity and prosperity. From the earliest days of Namibia’s independence, he emphasised peace, cooperation, and good relations with neighbouring countries. He was a true Pan- Africanist, advocating for African unity at every stage of Namibia’s development.
The best way to honour his legacy is to uphold the values he stood for—unity, hard work, economic growth for all, and lasting peace.
A Personal Reflection
On a personal level, I owe much to President Nujoma and to SWAPO. Thanks to the Finnish scholarship facilitated by SWAPO, I was able to complete my education up to the PhD level without ever having to pay a cent. I was entrusted with leadership positions in both government and the private sector because of the confidence President Nujoma had in me.
One of my greatest honours was hosting him at my home in Edundja, a moment I will always cherish. He gave me opportunities that shaped my life and career, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Sam Nujoma has completed his mission. It is now up to us to carry his vision forward.
Go well, President Nujoma. We will miss you, but we will never forget you.
Dr Leake Hangala
