Africa-Press – Namibia. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has urged all Namibians to unite and safeguard the legacy of the country’s fallen heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives for independence.
The president made these remarks during the state memorial service of the late former Chief of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), Lieutenant-general Solomon “Jesus” Hawala (Retired), held at Ohakweenyanga village in the Oshana region.
Hawala died on 11 August at the age of 89, just days before his 90th birthday, and was buried at Ongwediva cemetery.
The President emphasised that the values for which the freedom fighters fought and died must continue to guide Namibians today.
“Against that backdrop, fellow Namibians, I therefore urge all Namibians, from all walks of life, to stand together, hand-in-hand, and champion the importance of unity in preserving the values our heroes and heroines stood for by sacrificing their precious lives for the independence of the Land of the Brave,” she said. Describing Hawala as a resilient and decorated freedom fighter, Nandi-Ndaitwah said his patriotism inspired generations to resist apartheid and colonialism until Namibia attained its long-awaited freedom.
“Hawala was not only a deputy commander of PLAN and a military leader in independent Namibia. He was a boldly committed freedom fighter, a pillar of strength and a political rock that demonstrated a spirit of bravery, fortitude and selfless leadership,” she added.
Swapo secretary-general Sophia Shaningwa paid tribute to Hawala’s humility, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice and independence.
“The late Comrade Hawala’s selfless dedication continues to shape our national destiny,” she said.
Former President Nangolo Mbumba remembered Hawala as a fearless and steadfast patriot, while former President Hifikepunye Pohamba also sent condolences, honouring Hawala’s gallant service.
Family tributes highlighted his personal virtues, describing him as a loving father, a man of perseverance and faith, fair, honest, hardworking, and a man of few words. “He was stern, a man of peace, and a man of purpose,” they said.
Liberation struggle veteran Mwahafa Ndakolute Ndilula recalled one of Hawala’s enduring lessons: “He taught us that subordinates must always be treated fairly and must also be told the truth, however uncomfortable it might be.”
Hawala earned the nickname “Jesus” during the armed liberation struggle while in Lusaka, Zambia. One night, he suddenly shouted, “My Jesus!” when comrades asked him to explain something he had no clear answer for. The name stuck, initially annoying him, but he eventually accepted it.
Over his lifetime, Hawala was honoured with numerous national decorations, including the Order of Eagle 1st Class, the Omugulu-gwombashe Medal, the Namibia Silver Cross for Bravery, and various NDF medals for outstanding leadership.
Born on 19 August 1935 at Efidilomulunga near Ongwediva, he joined Swapo in 1962 before going into exile in 1964. Trained in Tanzania, North Korea, and the Soviet Union, he later participated in, planned, and directed several combat operations against South African colonial forces while based in Zambia.
Hawala served as deputy commander of PLAN before becoming the first army commander of the unified Namibian Defence Force in 1990, following his appointment by the Founding President Sam Nujoma.
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