– Namibia president Hage Geingob
– Anti-apartheid activist Hage Geingob.

Namibia’s President Hage Geingob Passes Away at 82

Background and Legacy

Hage Geingob, the president and founding prime minister of Namibia, tragically passed away on Sunday at the age of 82. He had been receiving treatment for cancer, according to reports. Geingob played a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining one of Africa’s most stable democracies. After spending years in exile as an anti-apartheid activist in Botswana and the United States, he returned to Namibia and contributed significantly to the country’s development.

Geingob’s leadership was instrumental in guiding Namibia through its transition to independence in 1990, following decades of German colonial rule and apartheid South African control. He served as Namibia’s third president since independence, having been in office since 2015. He was set to complete his second and final term this year.

Deputy Sworn in as Acting President

In light of Geingob’s passing, his deputy, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, was swiftly sworn in as acting president in the capital city of Windhoek. According to the country’s constitution, Mbumba will lead Namibia until March 21 of next year, when the winner of the upcoming elections will assume office.

A Life Dedicated to Diplomacy

Geingob was known for his soft-spoken demeanor and his commitment to advancing Africa’s interests on the global stage. He maintained strong relationships with Western countries, including the United States, while also fostering ties with China and other world powers, as is common among many African leaders.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences, highlighting Geingob’s significant contribution to the friendly relations between Namibia and Russia. He stated that he would forever cherish his memories of meeting Geingob.

A Nation of Riches and Inequalities

Namibia, with a population of just over 2.5 million people, boasts abundant mineral resources, including diamonds, gold, and uranium. Despite being classified as an upper-middle-income country, socioeconomic inequalities persist, as acknowledged by the World Bank.

The country stands out in a region historically marked by conflict and disputed elections due to its political and economic stability. However, Geingob faced criticism from the opposition last year for endorsing disputed elections in neighboring Zimbabwe.

Geingob’s Stance on Global Issues

Geingob was not afraid to voice his opinions on both domestic and international matters. In January, he openly criticized Germany, Namibia’s former colonial ruler, for its support of Israel following a case filed against Israel at the International Court of Justice by South Africa, accusing it of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Geingob highlighted the moral contradiction of Germany expressing commitment to the United Nations convention against genocide while also supporting what he referred to as the equivalent of a holocaust and genocide in Gaza.

He referenced Namibia’s own history of genocide, acknowledging Germany’s recent recognition of the atrocities committed between 1904 and 1908 by colonial security forces in Namibia. Germany has pledged over $1 billion for infrastructure projects in the country as a form of reparations.

African Leaders Pay Tribute

Leaders from across Africa paid tribute to Geingob, recognizing his immense contributions and legacy. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described him as a towering veteran of Namibia’s liberation from colonialism and apartheid, while Kenyan President William Ruto commended his efforts to amplify Africa’s voice on the global stage. Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa also expressed his appreciation for Geingob’s leadership and resilience.

The passing of President Hage Geingob marks the end of an era for Namibia. His dedication to the country’s development and his role in shaping its democracy will be remembered for years to come.

1. Namibia’s president and anti-apartheid activist Hage Geingob passes away at 82
2. Hage Geingob, Namibia’s president and anti-apartheid activist, dies at the age of 82.