FULL TEXT: Mr. Speaker Sir, I rise on a point of national interest to draw the attention of this august house to the passing on of President Sam Nujoma, a titan of Pan-Africanism and a champion of Africa’s liberation, whose unwavering support for Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle will forever be etched in our nation’s history. As the last of the frontline states leaders to pass on, his demise marks the end of an era in both Namibian and African history.

President Nujoma’s lifelong work embodied the principles of Pan-Africanism, seeking to promote solidarity and cooperation among African people. Through his leadership of SWAPO, he spearheaded Namibia’s struggle for independence, inspiring a generation of Africans to resist colonialism, apartheid, and neo-colonialism. His commitment to Pan-Africanism was shaped by his encounters with other African luminaries like Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba, and Gamal Abdel Nasser.

Here in Zimbabwe, we remember Nujoma’s steadfast support for our liberation struggle. We recall how he stood in solidarity with us during our independence celebrations in 1980, even as he continued to battle for Namibia’s freedom. In June 1981, Zimbabwe hosted a ‘Namibia Solidarity Week,’ featuring mass rallies led by President Nujoma, further solidifying the bonds of Pan-African solidarity between our nations.

As we reflect on Nujoma’s legacy, we acknowledge his significant contributions to the development of Pan-African thought. He played a crucial role in forming the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and promoting regional integration through the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Nujoma’s tireless efforts earned him numerous accolades, including the Lenin Peace Prize, the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize, and the Ho Chi Minh Peace Prize.

As we mourn the passing of this African icon, we draw inspiration from his life. Nujoma’s dedication to African liberation, his commitment to Pan-Africanism, and his pursuit of justice and equality are a testament to his enduring legacy. As Zimbabweans, particularly the younger generation, we can learn valuable lessons from Nujoma’s life about solidarity, perseverance, and sacrifice in pursuit of a united, empowered, and just Africa.

In light of these immense contributions, I propose that this House impress upon the Executive to declare a day of national mourning in Zimbabwe to honor the life and legacy of Sam Nujoma.