Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ester Mbathera
Published on 2024-02-27 17:00:00
The nation bid farewell to former president Hage Geingob in a series of heartfelt ceremonies that touched the hearts of thousands of Namibians. The outpouring of love and respect for Geingob was evident as tears flowed during the three-day memorial events.
The events started on Friday with crowds lining the streets of the capital to witness the transportation of Geingob’s body to Parliament Gardens, where it lay in state. On Saturday, mourners woke early to attend a final memorial service at Independence Stadium. The following day, Geingob was laid to rest at Heroes’ Acre. His widow, Monica Geingos, affectionately referred to him as “Ou Hageba, kai axaba”, highlighting his humble beginnings as a peasant who rose to the presidency.
The tributes from mourners spoke to Geingob’s humility, love, and connection to the people. One mourner, Elfrieda Temba, emphasized that they were mourning not just for his pension or social grant, but for the genuine care and respect he showed to all. Another, Loide Tjiramba, expressed her unwavering dedication to honoring the president she had voted for.
During the official memorial service, President Nangolo Mbumba praised Geingob’s path to greatness and his steadfast commitment to peace. Mbumba highlighted Geingob’s principles of inclusivity and pan-Africanism, noting his dedication to championing the cause of Africa on the global stage.
Geingos, in her tribute, reflected on her husband’s journey from poverty to the presidency, noting his unwavering honesty and connection to the people. She highlighted his humble beginnings and his rise to international respect. Geingos also spoke of the cultural rituals that were an integral part of Geingob’s final journey, underscoring their significance in providing comfort and connection to ancestry.
The overnight vigil, led by traditional leaders, added a sacred and cultural element to the funeral proceedings, emphasizing Geingob’s roots and respect for tradition. Chief Ignatius Gaoro Kavango and traditionalist Rosa Namises performed traditional ≠Nukhoe rituals to honor Geingob’s spirit.
Despite the solemnity of the events, there were moments of disappointment as traditional rituals were overshadowed by religious and diplomatic protocols. Namises expressed concern over the lack of recognition for cultural practices and stressed the importance of collaboration between the state, church, and cultural communities in honoring the deceased.
In her final farewell, Geingos remembered her husband’s transparency and his wishes for his legacy. She spoke of the shock of his passing and the importance of preparation for the end of life. Bishop Sageus |Keib delivered a final prayer and scripture reading at Heroes’ Acre, marking the conclusion of Geingob’s journey from peasant to president and the profound impact he had on the nation.
With tears, love, and respect, Namibians honored the life and legacy of Hage Geingob, a man who rose from humble beginnings to touch countless hearts as president.
Read the original article on The Namibian
