Maria David
RESIDENTS of Ondangwa gathered at the Andimba Toivo ya Toivo Secondary School sports field on Tuesday for a candlelight vigil in remembrance of President Hage Geingob, who passed away at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital nearly two weeks ago, at the age of 82.
President Geingob was described as a unifier, a friend to all, an administrator, an entertainer, and a man with big dreams.
Oshana Governor Elia Irimari hailed the late President Geingob as a man who fought tirelessly against poverty and inequality, striving to create a society where every Namibian had equal opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Irimari emphasized that his commitment to education, healthcare, and economic development would forever be remembered as a testament to his determination to build a strong and prosperous Namibia.
“President Geingob’s legacy will continue to inspire us all, reminding us of the importance of unity, peace, and progress,” he said.
He added that his vision for a united Namibia, where every citizen can thrive and succeed, would serve as a guiding light for future generations.
He urged all Namibians to honour President Geingob’s memory by continuing his work, striving for unity, and upholding the values that he passionately believed in. He emphasized the need to work together to build a Namibia that he would be proud of—an inclusive, just, and prosperous nation for all.
Meanwhile, Ondangwa Mayor Paavo Amwele indicated that the late President was a man of good character—peace-loving, hardworking, trustworthy, a distinguished servant of the people, the chief architect of the Namibian constitution, and the pillar of the Namibian house.
Amwele added that the late President was a vibrant statesman, a world leader, a man of the people who believed and worked tirelessly to build a united Namibia for all its citizens.
Naemi Amuthenu, delivering her condolences on behalf of the Association of Local Authorities of Namibia (ALAN), said that ALAN had joined the entire nation in mourning for the architect of the fundamental principles governing the nation.
“We join everyone in mourning for a man of inclusivity, the architect of the Harambee Prosperity Plan, a proponent of transparency, and a promoter of freedom of the press,” she said.
She added that the memory of his lifetime as a combatant, freedom fighter, first Prime Minister, and statesman in the service of the highest ideals would be a legacy of inspiration to all Namibians.
President Geingob will be laid to rest on the 25th of February, 2024.
