King Charles has paid tribute to Namibia’s former president, Sam Nujoma, following his death at the age of 95, describing Nujoma’s “lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy” as “inspirational” and praised his “immense contribution to history.”
Nujoma, who led Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 and served as the country’s first president for 15 years, passed away on Saturday, as announced by current Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, King Charles said, “My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of former President Sam Nujoma today. President Nujoma’s contribution to history was immense, through his leadership in the long struggle for independence and his subsequent service as the Founding President of the Republic of Namibia for 15 years.”
The British monarch also reflected on Namibia’s valued membership in the Commonwealth, recalling his mother, Queen Elizabeth II’s 1991 visit to the country. “I recall with particular gratitude how much Her late Majesty The Queen enjoyed Her State Visit to Namibia in 1991, which was hosted so graciously by President Nujoma,” he said.
He continued, “His lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy, overcoming so much adversity on that journey, was truly inspirational. It is a testament to the legacy of Dr. Nujoma that the Republic of Namibia, as a valued member of the Commonwealth of Nations, still upholds and embodies the values of peace and democracy that its Founding President so ardently promoted and protected.”
King Charles ended the statement by offering his deepest sympathy and prayers to Nujoma’s wife, Kovambo Nujoma, their family, and the people of Namibia at this difficult time.
Nujoma was revered as the charismatic father of the nation who led the country to democracy and stability after German colonial rule and a bitter independence war with South Africa.
He was the last of a generation of African leaders, alongside Nelson Mandela and Kenneth Kaunda, who ended colonial or white minority rule. Many Namibians credited him with fostering national reconciliation, healing divisions created by apartheid-era policies.
