Dr Nchimbi: The struggle for economic freedom in Southern Africa continues
Namibia’s ruling party SWAPO Vice President and President-Elect, Dr Ndemupelila Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah, greets CCM secretary general, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, upon his arrival at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek. Dr Ndaitwah led mourners in paying their final respects and tributes to Namibia’s first President and Founder of SWAPO, the late Dr Sam Nujoma, on Thursday, February 27, 2025. PHOTO | COURTESY.
What you need to know:
Dr Nchimbi was speaking on Friday, February 28, 2025, at an event honouring Namibia’s first President and Father of the Nation, Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma in Windhoek, Namibia
Dar es Salaam. CCM secretary general, Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi has said the fight for economic freedom and social welfare in Southern Africa must continue to honour in honour of Sam Nujoma and other departed freedom fighters.
The chief executive of Tanzania’s ruling party was speaking on Friday, February 28, 2025, at an event honouring Namibia’s first President and Father of the Nation, Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma.
During the event at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek, Namibia, Ambassador Dr Nchimbi reaffirmed the commitment of current regional leaders to uphold the principles of freedom, democracy and unity that the founders of the liberation movements fought for.
He emphasised that these leaders dedicated their lives to advancing human dignity, self-determination, peace, and the ideals of the African Union.
“The fight for economic prosperity, which continues today, is a tribute to the pioneers of Southern Africa’s political liberation,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by thousands of mourners, including senior leaders from Namibia’s ruling party, SWAPO, such as Vice President Ndemupelila Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is also the President-Elect of Namibia, and SWAPO secretary general Sophia Shaningwa.
The late Dr Nujoma’s family, along with representatives from other political parties, were also present to pay their respects.
Dr Nchimbi expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Dr Nujoma, describing him as the last surviving leader of the founders of Southern Africa’s liberation.
He recalled how Dr Nujoma’s efforts in securing Namibia's independence were pivotal in the broader fight against apartheid in South Africa.
The Ambassador also praised the deceased for his commitment to democratic values, highlighting that Namibia’s smooth transition to democracy and peaceful leadership stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
Reflecting on Dr Nujoma’s sacrifices during Namibia's liberation struggle, Ambassador Dr Nchimbi recalled how the deceased had to go into exile, using a Tanzanian passport under the alias Samuel Mwakangale, symboliSing Tanzania’s role as a sanctuary for SWAPO and other liberation movements.
He also conveyed the condolences of CCM Chairperson and Tanzania’s President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, who described Dr Nujoma as a true friend of Tanzania and a steadfast African who dedicated his life to freedom and justice.
Dr Nchimbi also paid tribute to other African liberation leaders, urging that their fight for political freedom continues to inspire the ongoing battle for economic prosperity in the region.
Dr Sam Nujoma’s national funeral is scheduled for Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Heroes’ Cemetery in Windhoek, following the official national farewell on February 28, 2025, which will see leaders from within and outside Namibia in attendance.
