Africa-Press – Namibia. The harbour town fell silent on Saturday as hundreds gathered to bid farewell to iconic businessman John Savva.
His life and legacy left a lasting mark on Walvis Bay and Namibia at large.
Tears, tributes and memories flowed as family, friends and leaders united to honour a man remembered as a father, mentor and pillar of the community. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah described Savva, who died on 11 October, as a towering figure, whose legacy extended beyond business into the very heart of the Walvis Bay community.
“Indeed, when you talk about Walvis Bay, the name Savva is almost synonymous with the harbour town.
The town itself cannot be mentioned without recalling his impact. He was not just a businessman. He was part of the town’s soul – its heartbeat,” she said.
She praised his generosity, humility and faith, highlighting how Savva rose from an immigrant entrepreneur to become one of Namibia’s most admired business leaders.
She said his contribution to the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where he served for 25 years – 20 years as president – shaped Walvis Bay into the thriving hub it is today.
“One of the things he was known for was being generous without being noisy about it, reminding us that not all good deeds must be publicised for those who came to you for help. He helped those who went to him in good faith. He implies that their dignity must also be respected, a profound lesson for all of us to keep,” the President said.
She noted his role in strengthening international relations as Honorary Consul for Cyprus and Greece in Namibia for nearly 25 years, and his longstanding friendship with the Swapo.
Motivator
Savva’s son-in-law Elia Hadjidakis, in his euology, said the late businessman’s life story should serve as an inspiration to Namibians, especially the youth.
He recalled that Savva arrived in Namibia about six decades ago as a young man with only R20 in his pocket. But through hard work and determination, he became one of the country’s most respected entrepreneurs.
“Last Saturday, my father-in-law died, but that story must not die. That story is a testimony to Namibians, especially the young, that if you are hungry enough and determined enough, you will never have to say where you came from – because that doesn’t count. Only where you are going counts,” he said.
He added that Savva, fondly known as ‘Uncle Savva’, never did anything for profit but always for purpose.
“When he built Afrodite Beach, he wanted to bring life to the desert. When he planted trees, he did it to put Namibia on the map. When he built the police station – every cent he made, he reinvested into the land and the people – creating jobs and paying taxes to build this nation,” he said.
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