The Swapo Party paid tribute to late businessman and party member John Savva, describing him as an icon of hope and unity during a memorial service at Walvis Bay.

Also present at the memorial service were former President Nangolo Mbumba, Swapo Party Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa and former cabinet ministers.

The Swapo Party Coordinator for Erongo, Daniel Muhuura, informed the mourners of Savva's last wish, which he said must be respected. 

"He desperately wanted the Swapo Party to win Walvis Bay. We are now duty-bound as Swapo members and sympathisers, and supporters to make sure that we have to regain Walvis Bay and take control over Walvis Bay as the Swapo Party."

Swapo Party members such as Derek Klazen said Savva had been a pillar for the party.

"John Savva, Mr. Savva, has been a great pillar and support of the Swapo Party, both financially and morally. His helping hands were not only for Walvis Bay but have also reached us as the Swapo Party district of the entire Omusati Region."

Another member, Pohamba Shifeta, also reflected on his relationship with Savva, saying he found it difficult to enter the Atlantic Hotel in his absence.

"It took me more than 20 minutes just to enter the hotel. I sat quietly in the car, thinking for the first time that I would enter the Atlantic Hotel with Comrade Savva no more with us. His welcoming gesture reminds me that life changes can be so sudden."

The Swapo Party Youth League and the Women and Elders Councils also paid tribute to Savva and commended his unwavering support for the party.