President Ramkalawan sends condolence message following passing of Namibian president |05 February 2024

President Wavel Ramkalawan has sent a message of condolence to Dr Nangolo Mbumba, Acting President of Namibia, following the passing of President Hage Geingob.

President Geingob, 82, died while receiving medical treatment at a hospital in the capital, Windhoek. He had been diagnosed with cancer.

In his message, President Ramkalawan stated that it was with profound sadness that he learned of the passing of President Hage Geingob.

“On behalf of the government and people of Seychelles, as well as on my own behalf, I extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to you, to the government and to the people of the Republic of Namibia, and to the family of President Hage Geingob.

“The news of President Geingob’s passing has deeply saddened us all. We recognise his significant contributions to the development and progress of Namibia during his tenure as President and also during his long career in politics and in the forefront of the leadership of Namibia,” wrote President Ramkalawan.

He further added that President Geingob’s “leadership, dedication, and vision have left an indelible mark on the history of your nation and the African continent as a whole. His dedication to the betterment of Namibia will forever be remembered, and his loss is mourned not only by the Namibian people but by all who knew of his steadfast commitment to the welfare and progress of his country and the African continent.”

President Ramkalawan said that as fellow members of the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), Seychelles stands in solidarity with Namibia during this difficult time.

“May you find solace and strength in the cherished memories of the remarkable life and accomplishments of President Hage Geingob and in the knowledge that his legacy will endure through the positive impact he made on his country and its people. And may his spirit continue to inspire us all,” added President Ramkalawan.

Mr Geingob first became president in 2015.

Acting President, Dr Nangolo Mbumba will be in office until the election which is due later this year.

Pasty Canaya / Press release from the Foreign Affairs department