OKANGHUDI – Various mourners from across the country have described former first lady Penehupifo Pohamba as a humble and caring mother, as well as a dedicated nurse who made significant contributions to Namibia and her community.
She died on Saturday in Windhoek at the age of 78.
Mourners continue to gather at the homestead of former President Hifikepunye Pohamba in Okanghudi village to pay their respects following the death of Namibia’s second first lady.
Various schools from around Okanghudi village came in large numbers, singing as they made their way to the Pohamba homestead to comfort the bereaved family. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. Former president Pohamba is still in Windhoek, where he is expected to attend the first memorial service on Friday.
First Gentleman Epaphras Ndaitwah recognised late Pohamba’s dedication to maternal and child healthcare, HIV/AIDS awareness, women’s empowerment and community welfare. Ndaitwah said her commitment to serving communities, uplifting women and children, and supporting vulnerable families reminds the nation that leadership is ultimately measured by the lives touched and the difference made in the lives of others.
He noted that the work undertaken today lays the foundation for carrying forward the enduring responsibility to strengthen families, empower communities and promote the well-being of all Namibians.
Ndaitwah said Pohamba’s legacy reminds everyone that service to humanity is a responsibility that transcends titles and generations.
The First Gentleman extended his condolences to former President Hifikepunye Pohamba, the bereaved family and the nation.
Former Ohangwena governor and former deputy minister of defence Billy Mwaningange recalled meeting Pohamba in 1974 when they travelled to Angola together.
Mwaningange described Pohamba as a great woman who used her professional healthcare skills to assist Namibia and its people. Helao Nafidi Mayor Darius Shaalukeni described the late former First Lady as a humble leader whose legacy of compassion and service will endure. He said her passing was a loss not only to her family but also to the people of Helao Nafidi and the wider region.
Vice president of the Namibia Albino Association, Walde Kambambi, said Pohamba assisted people living with albinism by providing lotion, hats and sunglasses.
“We lost our mother who loved us. Many people living with albinism benefited from her office,” he said.
Kambambi said they appreciated the work done by Pohamba and remembered her as a caring mother.
The principal of Okanghudi Combined School, Jerobiam Nande, said the late former First Lady will be remembered for her kindness, dignity and contributions to Namibia, as well as to the village of Okanghudi.
Nande was accompanied by teachers and learners from the school.
-fhamalwa@nepc.com.na
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