Namibia Bids Farewell to Its Longest-Serving President

Namibia’s former president Hage Geingob, who led the country for 15 years, was laid to rest on Saturday in a state funeral attended by regional leaders and dignitaries. Geingob, who died on February 19 at the age of 80, was hailed as a visionary leader who championed democracy, development, and regional integration.
Geingob was Namibia’s first prime minister after independence from South Africa in 1990, and later served as the country’s third president from 2015 to 2020. He was re-elected for a second term in 2019, but stepped down in November 2020 due to health reasons. He was succeeded by his former vice president, Nangolo Mbumba.
Geingob’s funeral was held at the Heroes’ Acre national monument in the capital, Windhoek, where he was buried next to the country’s founding father, Sam Nujoma. Among the mourners were the presidents of South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Mozambique, as well as representatives from the African Union, the United Nations, and the European Union.
In his eulogy, President Mbumba praised Geingob as a “giant of Africa” who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of Namibia and the continent. He said Geingob was a “man of peace” who fostered good relations with neighboring countries and the international community. He also credited Geingob for his efforts to combat poverty, inequality, and corruption in Namibia, and for his support for women and youth empowerment.
“President Geingob was a visionary leader who understood the challenges and opportunities of our time. He was a champion of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He was a builder of bridges, a unifier of our nation, and a promoter of regional integration and cooperation,” Mbumba said.
Geingob’s widow, Monica Geingos, also paid tribute to her late husband, describing him as a “kind, generous, and loving” man who always put the interests of the people first. She thanked the Namibian people and the international community for their condolences and support during this difficult time.
“Today, we say goodbye to a great leader, a great patriot, and a great friend. He leaves behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, and excellence. He leaves behind a nation that is proud, peaceful, and prosperous. He leaves behind a continent that is stronger, united, and hopeful,” she said.
As Namibia mourns the loss of its longest-serving president, the country also celebrates his achievements and contributions to its history and development. Geingob’s vision and values will continue to inspire and guide the nation as it faces the future with confidence and optimism.

Source: AP News