Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah returned last week to the modest house in Dar es Salaam’s Magomeni neighbourhood that was her home from 1980 to 1986 while she served as SWAPO’s chief representative in East Africa.
She visited the residence with First Gentleman General (Rtd) Epaphras Ndaitwah, where she met former neighbours who sheltered her during Namibia’s liberation struggle.
“Magomeni is an important part of my life and the history of my country. Tanzania gave us shelter, love, and the chance to fight for our freedom. This is true friendship and African solidarity,” she said.
Photos: Namibian Presidency
Her former neighbours shared memories of that period and expressed joy at reuniting with her — this time as President of independent Namibia.
The Magomeni house was one of many homes that hosted Namibian freedom fighters in exile.
From the early years of the struggle, Tanzania opened its doors to Namibians fleeing apartheid South Africa’s rule. Many of those exiles later became teachers, nurses, diplomats, and — last but not least — presidents!
