Namibian Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, announced on Wednesday that several heads of state have confirmed their attendance for the funeral of Founding President Sam Nujoma. These include heads of state from Angola, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Ghana.
Dignitaries from Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Finland, Cuba, and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic will also be present at the funeral taking place on Saturday, Theofelus said while giving the latest update on the funeral arrangements at the Government Information Center in Windhoek.
“This list is not exhaustive as we continue to receive confirmations and alterations closer to the burial date. All logistics are underway; transportation arrangements for the residents of the Khomas Region to attend the official memorial service and burial ceremony are being made. Pick-up points will be announced,” Theofelus added.
The programs of the official memorial service and burial have also been finalized and approved by the government and the Nujoma family.
She further noted that Nujoma’s burial site at Heroes’ Acre has been identified, and the tombstone inscription is being finalized in consultation with the family.
“This is an unprecedented situation for Namibia, as it is the first time in the history of the country that the remains of an individual are being taken to the regions for the opportunity for Namibians to bid farewell. We therefore ask for forgiveness where we have fallen short in our planning and execution. As we know, we are a culturally diverse country… and we will lack here and there. Therefore, fellow Namibians, we ask for your patience and tolerance during this period of mourning,” Theofelus said.
Nujoma passed away on February 8, 2025, and will be laid to rest at Heroes’ Acre on Saturday.