Africa-Press – Namibia. PRESIDENT Nangolo Mbumba said that the life of the late Chief Daniel Shivute Shooya of the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority was marked by benevolence, generosity, and care for his fellow citizens, especially those trapped in poverty.
Chief Shooya passed away at his residence in Oshika village on October 31, 2024, and was laid to rest on Saturday.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Regional Governor Erginus Endjala, President Mbumba described the late chief as a “Son of the Soil” and a “Hero of the People,” who made significant contributions to building a united, peaceful, and prosperous Namibian House where no one feels left out.
President Mbumba’s speech, quoted verbatim, is as follows:
“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the distressing news of the passing of Chief Daniel Shooya on October 31, 2024, at his residence in Oshika village.
Comrade Shooya, also known by his traditional title Elenga Enene, was a prominent Namibian leader and the head of the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority.
The late Comrade Daniel Shivute Shooya’s life was characterized by benevolence, generosity, and care for his fellow citizens, particularly for those who find themselves trapped in poverty.
Comrade Shooya became the chief of the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority in 1985 and served in this role for 39 years with distinction, making him one of the longest-serving traditional leaders in Namibia. He was highly respected for his efforts in promoting traditional values, unity, and social harmony within his community and the nation at large. His leadership was particularly significant in fostering the preservation of Ovawambo cultural practices.
Comrade Shooya, together with the late King Kauluma Elifas, was one of the first chiefs to receive Namibian people returning from exile in 1989, providing portions of land at Onandjandja and Oshihau for resettlement.
Chief Shooya was deeply concerned about poverty among his people and championed agricultural projects, including the Etunda Irrigation Project and the Etaka Project for small and medium enterprises. In this regard, Chief Shooya allocated more than 120 hectares of land for the Etunda Irrigation Project, the largest irrigation scheme in northern Namibia. He also allocated land for community gardening projects along the Olushandja Dam to Namibian citizens regardless of their ethnic origin, region, or religious orientation.
Another of Chief Shooya’s poverty alleviation initiatives included constructing mahangu granaries to distribute mahangu to vulnerable households and community members.
As a young man, Chief Shooya worked as a contract labourer in several regions of Namibia. During this time, he met various personalities and supported the liberation struggle of Namibia. He made substantial contributions both before and after independence, playing various roles in Namibia’s development.
In light of such a rich life and commendable service to humanity, today we also celebrate Chief Shooya as a comrade, husband, father, and uncle whose life positively impacted and transformed the lives of many Namibians. We remember him for his humility, generosity, hospitality, and love for his fellow citizens and country.
Fellow Mourners,
Although we are saddened by the passing of Chief Shooya, let us find comfort in knowing that he has now found rest after making a profound contribution to the freedom we enjoy today. His deeds of generosity and patriotism will forever be remembered and recorded in the annals of Namibian history.
May Chief Shooya’s humanitarian contributions continue to inspire us and future generations as we bid him farewell today.
On behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of Namibia, I extend our sincere condolences to the widow, Meme Selma Nambula Shooya, the children, and the entire bereaved family. May the Lord God Almighty shine His light of peace and comfort upon you during this difficult time.
May Comrade Chief Daniel Shivute Shooya’s soul rest in eternal peace.
I thank you.”
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