Chris Jacobie
JANE KATJAVIVI, the English rose that flourished and came into full bloom in the rocky garden of Namibia’s independence and ongoing quest to nationhood, was cut by angels for their bouquet in heaven.
But the fragrance of this remarkable woman – wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many across the globe – will linger longer than the memory of tragedy. With the passing of the sands of time and the timelessness of memory of the best values, it will become even stronger.
Jane Katjavivi left suddenly and too soon.
There could not be a more opportune place than the St. George’s Cathedral close to the Scientific Society, the National Theatre and Art Gallery, the National Museum and the shadows of the Legislature for a public memorial service for Jane Katjavivi, a woman of the arts and the books.
The St. George’s Cathedral venue is small, humble and historic, very much like Jane Katjavivi herself.
Even more than the deep-cutting loss of a once-in-a-lifetime soulmate for the Namibian Constitutional writer, internationally acclaimed academic and hugely respected diplomat and parliamentarian of the world, Dr Peter Katjavivi, and his remaining five children and grandchildren, Jane Katjavivi departed at a time when Namibian society needs every small beacon of good value because it is severely tested on every level.
When the rose of England is interred in Namibian soil this weekend, the memories and national contribution to dignity, kindness, commitment and the best of human values that Jane Katjivivi demonstrated will still flourish as a reminder of human kindness that distinguishes humankind from any kind.
Her family will take comfort in the knowledge that a nation stands ready to wipe their tears and take their hands on the journey of love and life that will be needed in difficult and dark times, knowing that the sun shines brightest in unity and adversity.
