President Ramaphosa Honors Namibian Legend Dr. Sam Nujoma

• South African President Cyril Ramaphosa pays tribute to Namibia's iconic first president, Dr. Sam Nujoma
• Dr. Nujoma served as Namibia's first president post-independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990
• Ramaphosa hailed him as a remarkable freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in the liberation of both Namibia and South Africa

Tebogo Mokwena, an experienced political analyst with Briefly News, has delivered insightful local and international political coverage and interviews in South Africa, working with the Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News for nine years.

PRETORIA — President Cyril Ramaphosa paid heartfelt tribute to the late former Namibian president, Dr. Sam Nujoma, who passed away on February 8, 2024, after a prolonged battle with illness. In a message filled with admiration and respect, Ramaphosa remembered Nujoma as a towering figure in the fight for freedom and equality in Southern Africa.

The Legacy of Dr. Sam Nujoma

Dr. Sam Nujoma was more than just the first democratically elected president of Namibia; he was a founding father of the South West African People's Organisation (SWAPO). This organization played a pivotal role in the liberation struggle against apartheid, which Namibia finally overcame in 1990. Nujoma led SWAPO during the grueling Namibian War of Independence, which lasted from 1966 to 1989, and served as the country’s president from 1990 to 2004, completing three terms in office. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the modern Namibian state and inspiring generations to continue the fight for justice and equality.

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Ramaphosa’s Tribute to a Hero

Through his social media platform on @CyrilRamaphosa X, President Ramaphosa expressed his deep admiration for Dr. Nujoma, calling him an "extraordinary freedom fighter." Ramaphosa praised Nujoma not only for his role in freeing Namibia from apartheid but also for his significant contributions to the liberation of South Africa. "Sam Nujoma inspired the Namibian people with a sense of pride and resistance that transcended the size of their population," Ramaphosa said. "President Nujoma's leadership laid the foundation for the solidarity and partnership our two countries share today—a partnership we will continue to deepen as neighbors and friends."

"Sam Nujoma inspired the Namibian people to pride and resistance that belief the size of the population. President Nujoma's leadership of a free Namibia laid the foundation for the solidarity and partnership our two countries share today— a partnership we will continue to deepen as neighbours and friends."

For those interested, you can view the original X tweet here:

Remembering Other Fallen Leaders

Notable Political Figures Who Have Passed

• The former Minister of Public Enterprises, Jamnadas Pravin Gordhan, tragically passed away shortly after the 2024 general elections.
• Dr. Motsoko Pheko, the former president of the Pan Africanist Congress, also passed away in 2024, leaving a void in the struggle for Pan-Africanism.
• African National Congress stalwart Yusuf Bhamjee, a revered figure in South African politics, passed away in January 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

The Passing of Former Finance Minister Tito Mboweni

In a related development, Briefly News reported the passing of the former Minister of Finance and Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, Tito Mboweni. Mboweni, known for his humorous tweets and bold sense of fashion, succumbed to a brief illness. His passing was mourned by many, including President Ramaphosa, who extended his condolences to Mboweni’s family and friends. Mboweni's contributions to South Africa's economic policies will be remembered for years to come.