Namibian President Hage Geingob Laid to Rest at Heroes’ Acre Cemetery After State Funeral
Namibia bid farewell to President Hage Geingob in a solemn state funeral ceremony held at the revered Heroes’ Acre cemetery on Sunday. The funeral, attended by dignitaries from across Africa and beyond, marked the conclusion of a chapter for the nation’s third president, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 82 after battling cancer.
Geingob’s legacy, characterized by his journey from humble rural beginnings to the presidency, was honored by his widow, Monica Geingos, in a heartfelt tribute during a memorial service at a packed soccer stadium. “You were born a peasant and died a president,” she remarked, encapsulating the remarkable trajectory of his life.
During the funeral procession, Geingob’s coffin, draped in the Namibian flag, was transported in a glass case atop a military trailer, symbolizing the end of an era for the nation.
Among the distinguished attendees were Princess Anne, representing the British monarchy, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and Qatar President Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, alongside 18 heads of state from neighboring African countries.
Steinmeier’s presence underscored a significant moment in history as he expressed Germany’s intention to formally apologize to Namibia for the atrocities committed during the 1904-1908 genocide, a matter Geingob had passionately advocated for.
The German government’s previous offer of $1.1 billion in reparations was met with rejection by Namibian Parliament and affected communities, signaling the unresolved nature of this historical chapter.
Geingob’s commitment to reconciliation and his aspirations for a better future resonated throughout the ceremony, as Steinmeier reiterated the importance of acknowledging past injustices and striving towards a shared destiny.
The late president’s final resting place, among the esteemed mausoleums at Heroes’ Acre designated for national heroes, signifies his enduring contribution to Namibian history and democracy.
Geingob’s pivotal role in shaping one of Africa’s most stable democracies, following decades of German and apartheid South African rule, leaves an indelible mark on the nation’s collective memory.
With Vice President Nangolo Mbumba sworn in as acting president following Geingob’s passing, Namibia prepares for a new chapter as it gears up for presidential elections slated for November. As the nation mourns the loss of a transformative leader, the spirit of Geingob’s legacy continues to guide Namibia towards a future of progress and unity.
Additional source: AfricaNews
