Africa-Press – Namibia. – Ex-police supremo Sebastian Ndeitunga has paid tribute to Solomon ‘Jesus’ Hawala, the now departed former Namibian Defence chief.
Ndeitunga described Hawala as a “forgotten hero” whose sacrifices were pivotal to Namibia’s liberation.
Hawala died on Monday, aged 89.
Speaking to New Era on Tuesday, Ndeitunga recalled first meeting Hawala in 1975 before travelling together to Ondjiva on a People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan) mission.
“He was one of the few people we followed during the liberation struggle, as he was the eyes and ears of Plan. We lost a hero, a person who gave his life to ensure that Namibia obtained its independence. He was a true servant of the people, a fearless man,” said Ndeitunga.
His son, Taapopi Hawala, described him as a man of action and few words.
“He raised us with discipline, although he never physically disciplined us. We always knew when something needed to be done, and we did it. He was very active, loved farming and agriculture, and spent most of his time at the farm,” he said.
Beyond his military service, Hawala served as headman of Ohakweenyanga, where he championed cleanliness and community order, launching regular cleaning campaigns to keep the village pristine.
Hawala was a decorated soldier and key figure in Namibia’s liberation struggle, rising from Plan deputy commander to become one of the architects of the country’s post-independence military. In 2000, he was appointed as chief of the NDF, a position he held until his retirement in 2006.
Known for his firm command style and military discipline, he played a crucial role in integrating former liberation fighters and ex-Southwest African Territorial Force members into a unified national defence structure after independence in 1990.
He earned his nom de guerre, ‘Jesus’, from his leadership and resilience.
Hawala is survived by his wife, Laimi Hawala, and six children.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
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