WINDHOEK, Namibia – Several African leaders and international dignitaries are set to attend the funeral of Namibia’s Founding President, Sam Nujoma, scheduled for Saturday, officials confirmed.

Namibian Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, announced that heads of state from Angola, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Ghana have confirmed their attendance. Representatives from Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Finland, Cuba, and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic are also expected to be present.

“This list is not exhaustive as we continue to receive confirmations and alterations closer to the burial date. All logistics are underway, including transportation arrangements for residents of the Khomas Region to attend the official memorial service and burial ceremony. Pick-up points will be announced,” Theofelus stated during a press briefing at the Government Information Center in Windhoek.

The Namibian government, in coordination with the Nujoma family, has finalized the program for both the memorial service and the burial. The late president will be laid to rest at Heroes’ Acre, with his tombstone inscription being finalized in consultation with his family.

Theofelus acknowledged the historic nature of Nujoma’s farewell, as it marks the first time in Namibia’s history that the remains of a leader are being taken across different regions to allow citizens to pay their final respects.

“We ask for forgiveness where we have fallen short in our planning and execution. As we know, we are a culturally diverse country, and we will lack here and there. Therefore, fellow Namibians, we ask for your patience and tolerance during this period of mourning,” she said.

Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president from 1990 to 2005, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95.