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PRETORIA, South Africa, February 4, 2024/ – President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed deep sorrow at the early morning passing of His Excellency Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob, the President of the Republic of Namibia. President Ramaphosa, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and citizens of Namibia, particularly offering solace to First Lady Madame Monica Geingos and the extended Geingob family.
In a poignant message, President Ramaphosa conveyed sympathy to Acting President of Namibia, His Excellency Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, the Namibian Cabinet, and the members of the SWAPO Party during this time of grief. The Acting President announced today that President Geingob had succumbed to cancer while undergoing treatment.
Reflecting on the shared history and camaraderie between South Africa and Namibia, President Ramaphosa said, “Today, South Africa joins the people of our sister state Namibia in mourning the passing of a leader, patriot, and friend of South Africa.” He reminisced about the close ties forged during his Working Visit to Namibia in October 2023, where both nations committed to even closer collaboration.
President Geingob, a towering figure in Namibia’s liberation struggle, was lauded for his role in fostering solidarity between Namibia and South Africa during the fight against colonialism and apartheid. President Ramaphosa expressed gratitude for Geingob’s significant contributions to the region’s freedom and democracy.
“May his soul rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa concluded, acknowledging the loss of a comrade in the struggle for liberation and a trusted partner in the journey towards democratic governance. As both South Africa and Namibia navigate election seasons, the passing of President Geingob marks a somber moment in the history of the two nations. The legacy of his leadership and commitment to regional cooperation will undoubtedly endure.
