STORY: Namibia's founding president laid to rest at national shrine
SHOOTING TIME: March 1, 2025
DATELINE: March 2, 2025
LENGTH: 00:02:56
LOCATION: Windhoek
CATEGORY: POLITICS

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the Namibia's National Heroes' Acre, the venue of the state funeral, and army parade
2. various of arrival of Sam Nujoma's casket
3. SOUNDBITE (English): NANGOLO MBUMBA, Namibian President
4. various of audience at the state funeral

STORYLINE:

Namibia's founding President Sam Nujoma was laid to rest at the country's National Heroes' Acre on the outskirts of the capital, Windhoek, on Saturday.
   
Nujoma passed away at a local hospital on Feb. 8 at the age of 95. Speaking at the state funeral, Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba described Nujoma as a leader who stood for freedom and justice throughout his life.

SOUNDBITE (English) : NANGOLO MBUMBA, Namibian President
"We have gathered on this hallow grounds, the final resting place of Namibia's heroes and heroines to be laid to rest, the most distinguished son of the soil, a giant among leaders, and a revolutionary icon. Although our hearts may remain with grief, we take solace that President Sam Nujoma will rest among his fellow prestigious heroes and heroines, (and) has completed his mission with distinction, fulfilling his destiny and leaving behind the most precious gift of freedom and independence for the people of Namibia.
We salute you comrade Nujoma, a diamond of Etunda Village, for a life well lived in the service of the people of the Republic of Namibia, the region of SADC and the African Continent. Those of us who had a privilege to be under your command during the struggle, fondly recall how as a leader you always displayed confidence and demeanor in front of your comrades and your followers and your soldiers."

Mbumba also honored Nujoma for his selfless contributions, which helped shape Namibia into a respected democracy on the African continent. He said that Nujoma laid the foundation for future generations to thrive financially.

The funeral was attended by several African presidents and former leaders.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Windhoek.
(XHTV)