Namibia mourns the loss of its leader, President Hage Geingob, who passed away on Sunday at a hospital in Windhoek, where he was receiving treatment for cancer. He was 82 years old.
Geingob, who had been president of the southern African nation since 2015, was serving his second and final term in office. He had revealed his cancer diagnosis to the public last month, after undergoing a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy, followed by a biopsy. He had previously survived prostate cancer in 2014, and had an aortic operation last year.
His death was announced by the acting president, Nangolo Mbumba, who called for calm and said the cabinet would convene immediately to make the necessary arrangements. He said Geingob died with his wife, Monica Geingos, and his children by his side.
“President Geingob was a pillar of our nation and the chief architect of our constitution. He dedicated his life to the liberation and development of Namibia and its people. He was a visionary leader, a statesman, and a friend. We will miss him dearly,” Mbumba said in a statement.
Geingob was a prominent figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from South Africa, which was achieved in 1990. He served as the country’s first prime minister under founding president Sam Nujoma, and later as minister of trade and industry, before becoming president in 2015. He was re-elected in 2019 with 56% of the vote, amid a challenging economic situation and growing discontent among the youth.
Geingob was known for his efforts to promote democracy, human rights, and regional integration in Africa. He was also a vocal advocate for climate action, gender equality, and social justice. He was the current chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and had hosted the COP28 UN Climate Summit in Dubai last year.
His death has been met with an outpouring of condolences and tributes from across the continent and the world. The African Union, the United Nations, the European Union, and several heads of state and government have expressed their sadness and solidarity with Namibia.
“President Geingob was a great leader and a true son of Africa. He was a champion of peace, development, and cooperation. He leaves behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that will inspire generations to come. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, his government, and the people of Namibia,” said Moussa Faki Mahamat, the chairperson of the African Union Commission.
Namibia is set to hold elections to choose a new leader in November. The ruling party, Swapo, which has been in power since independence, has nominated Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila as its presidential candidate. She is currently the country’s prime minister, and would become the first female president of Namibia if she wins.
The nation has declared a period of national mourning, and flags will fly at half-mast until Geingob’s funeral. The date and details of the funeral have not been announced yet. Geingob is survived by his wife, four children, and several grandchildren.
