Namibia: Kasama Road Renamed in Honour of Founding President Sam Nujoma

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Lusaka, Zambia, 16 May 2025

On Monday, 12 May 2025, Namibia celebrated the 96th birthday of Sam 'Shafiishuna' Nujoma. He was our founding father and leader of the Namibian revolution. The government and the Sam Nujoma Foundation honored him by designating this day as a tree-planting day. The theme was "The Baobab Tree has Fallen, but its Roots Remain." Many Namibians participated in the ceremony to recognize his historic role in our freedom.

Five days later, my delegation and I are here in Lusaka for a special occasion. We are renaming Kasama Road after our founding president, Sam Nujoma. We remember his rich legacy following his death on 8 February 2025. Sam Nujoma spent many years in Lusaka as a freedom fighter and Swapo president. His close relationship with Dr. Kenneth Kaunda is well known.

Zambia provided a safe haven for Dr. Nujoma and Swapo during our liberation struggle against apartheid South Africa. Here in Lusaka, he planned for Namibia's future with President Kaunda. Kaunda's brave decision to host Swapo put Zambia at risk from South African attacks. I recall the bombing of the Liberation Centre in Lusaka and military aircraft harassing citizens.

We gather today to honor President Sam Nujoma through this road renaming by President Hakainde Hichilema and the city of Lusaka. I am grateful that this decision was made unanimously by the city council. This honor reflects the strong bond between Namibia and Zambia, built by leaders like Nujoma and Kaunda.

Today's event fills me with joy as it shows our ongoing friendship and cooperation. The renamed street will serve as a lasting reminder of our connection. Windhoek also honors Dr. Kenneth Kaunda with a street named after him.

In conclusion, I thank President Hakainde Hichilema, the Lusaka City Council, and all Zambians for this tribute to our founding president. This gift symbolizes the enduring friendship between our nations.

Long live the bonds between Namibia and Zambia! Zikomo kwambiri! Thank you.