UIC would like to pay tribute to Sam Nujoma, a former railway worker for South African Railways (SAR), Namibia’s first president, and founding father, who passed away on Saturday, 8 February 2025, at the age of 95. We celebrate his remarkable achievements, vision, and leadership.
Born on 12 May 1929, in Ongandjera, Namibia, Nujoma began his career as a railway worker for South African Railways. From a young age, he was actively engaged in politics, and in 1960, he co-founded the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which became the forefront of Namibia’s liberation struggle.
Due to his activism, Nujoma was exiled and travelled across the world to garner support for Namibia’s independence. His leadership and diplomatic efforts earned global recognition and solidarity from nations and international organisations alike.
In 1990, after Namibia’s first democratic elections confirmed its independence, Nujoma was elected as the country’s first head of state. His presidency was marked by policies that promoted national unity, economic growth, and social development.
Nujoma was a strong advocate for education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, ensuring that the people of Namibia had access to essential services. Even after stepping down as President in 2005, after serving in this role for 15 years, he remained a guiding force in Namibian politics and a revered elder statesman across Africa.
