Sun Feb 09 05:19:55 UTC 2025: ## Namibian Founding Father Sam Nujoma Dies at 95
**WINDHOEK, Namibia (February 9, 2025)** – Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president and a pivotal figure in the country’s fight for independence, passed away at the age of 95 on Saturday night. The announcement was made by current President Nangolo Mbumba, who confirmed Nujoma’s death following a hospitalization in Windhoek.
Nujoma, a charismatic leader often referred to as the “father of the nation,” led Namibia to independence from South Africa in 1990 after a long struggle against apartheid and colonial rule. He served as president for 15 years, earning praise for his role in establishing a democratic constitution and fostering national reconciliation after a deeply divisive war. His leadership was credited with uniting a nation fractured by decades of ethnic division and discriminatory policies enforced by South Africa.
Even those who opposed his sometimes controversial Marxist leanings and accusations of suppressing dissent during his exile acknowledged his contribution to post-independence nation-building. Nujoma notably involved white businessmen and politicians in government.
However, Nujoma also attracted international criticism for his outspoken anti-Western views. He controversially claimed AIDS was a man-made weapon and publicly condemned homosexuality.
Nujoma is survived by his legacy as one of the last generation of African leaders who liberated their nations from colonial rule, alongside figures like Nelson Mandela and Robert Mugabe. His death marks the end of an era for Namibia and the African continent.
First Piper 