Namibia’s President Hage Geingob Dies at 82
Life and Career
President Hage Geingob, the leader of Namibia since 2015, has died at the age of 82. Geingob, a veteran of the country’s independence struggle, was diagnosed with cancer last month and passed away early Sunday morning with his wife and children by his side, according to Vice-President Nangolo Mbumba.
Geingob was born in 1939 in Namibia, then known as South West Africa, and spent 27 years in exile, where he studied for a PhD in politics. He returned to Namibia in 1989, a year before the country gained independence, and became the first president of Namibia.
Early Life and Exile
Born in Namibia, Geingob grew up under apartheid rule, where black people were denied political and economic power. He joined the South West African People’s Organization (Swapo) at a young age and spent 27 years in exile, living in Botswana, the US, and the UK.
Return to Namibia and Leadership
Geingob returned to Namibia in 1989, a year before independence, and became the country’s first prime minister. He served in that position from 1990 to 2002, and again from 2012 to 2015. He was elected president of Namibia in 2015 and re-elected in 2019.
Personal Life and Tributes
Geingob was known for his jovial personality and ability to share a joke. On Namibian radio, people have been paying tribute to him, describing him as a visionary leader. Leaders from around the world, including Cyril Ramaphosa, president of neighboring South Africa, have sent condolence messages, praising Geingob’s efforts to ensure Namibia’s independence.
Legacy and Challenges
Geingob’s legacy is marked by his efforts to develop Namibia’s economy and improve living standards for its citizens. However, his presidency was also marred by corruption scandals and economic challenges. In his later years, his popularity declined, and three-quarters of the population thought the country was heading in the wrong direction, according to Afrobarometer.
Conclusion
Geingob’s death marks the end of an era for Namibia, and his legacy will be remembered for years to come. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained committed to building a better future for his country.
FAQs
Q: What was President Geingob’s age at the time of his death?
A: 82
Q: What was the cause of President Geingob’s death?
A: Cancer
Q: How long did President Geingob spend in exile?
A: 27 years
Q: What was President Geingob’s occupation before becoming prime minister of Namibia?
A: PhD in politics
Q: Who will become the next president of Namibia?
A: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the current deputy prime minister, has been chosen as the presidential candidate for November’s planned elections.