The Chief of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority, Elengenene Ndilimani Iipumbu, has penned an emotional tribute to the late Founding President with whom they would call each other "Mwameme" meaning brother.

Iipumbu says Nujoma was born into the Uukwambi royal family and was not just his leader and friend, but a family member who would show up at his house for sleepovers since 1991, despite his high rank.

The visibly heartbroken chief fought back his tears as he reminisced on the legacy of the late Founding President describing him as an advocate of culture, a fearless leader, a great family man, and a true friend to him and his family.

Having met at Okambwe in Zambia in 1988, Nujoma and Iipumbu's friendship continued to grow, and through engagements with him, he learnt qualities of unity, the importance of good leadership skills, giving, and many others.

The last time Nujoma visited his homestead at Onamega was during the 2023 Christmas holiday, where he spent two weeks, something he had not done before, as he would usually stay for a week or fewer days.

During their stay, Nujoma relished traditional performances and found himself mesmerised by songs that evoked memories of the liberation struggle.

Iipumbu says his wish is that Namibians become bold in their quest to see the country prosper and that they should emulate the leadership skills he possessed to get the nation to gravitate towards the vision of a Namibia that has total economic emancipation.

Iipumbu will be part of thousands of Namibians in the crowd expected to pay tribute to the late Founding President Nujoma on Thursday at his parent’s homestead of Etunda in the Omusati Region during his first memorial service.

Ndapanda Shuuya