Africa-Press – Namibia. Thousands of mourners gathered to pay their last respects to the late Ondangwa regional control prosecutor Justine Ndapandula Shiweda, who was laid to rest at her family cemetery in Onambango in the Oshana region on Saturday.
Shiweda died on 7 February 2026 after sustaining injuries during a violent attack on 17 October 2025 when she was shot and assaulted with a corrosive substance.
She was initially admitted to Ondangwa Private Hospital before being transferred to Windhoek Lady Pohamba Private Hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Six people accused of the murder of Shiweda are expected to appear in the Ondangwa Magistrate’s Court on 16 March 2026.
They were initially charged with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit attempted murder, but the charges were amended to murder following her death. The accused include Lukas Nekwiyu, Mateus Abner, Petrus Uusiku, Nghilifavali Johannes, Petrus Shikwaya and Ondangwa-based medical doctor Fillemon Nakanduungile. Shiweda is survived by her two children, a nine-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy, her parents and seven siblings.
National loss
At the memorial and funeral services, mourners were seen wiping away tears in disbelief and grief as the country bid farewell to a young woman taken too soon by senseless violence.
Leading the tributes, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah condemned the attack that led to the death of Shiweda, describing Namibia as a nation governed by the rule of law where threats or violence against officials of the law will not be tolerated. The President said that any act directed against those who uphold our laws is an act against the republic itself and will be met with the full force of the law.
She praised Shiweda as a professional who carried out her duties with integrity, courage and a deep commitment to justice.
“She represented the very ideals upon which our justice system is built. She believed in the independence of the law and in the principle that justice must never be for sale,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said in a speech delivered on her behalf by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare.
While delivering the President’s message, Ngurare appealed to all Namibians to contribute to a trust fund established to support Shiweda’s children.
He said the fund, launched Friday, will be overseen by the Oshana regional governor’s office, ensuring the welfare and future of her young children.
Chief Justice Peter Shivute paid tribute to Shiweda, highlighting her unwavering commitment to the justice system.
“Her passing is not only a personal tragedy but also a loss to the justice system, our constitutional democracy, and the rule of law,” Shivute said.
He added that the legal fraternity in Namibia will not be silenced by threats or acts of harm, noting that Shiweda’s service and contributions truly mattered.
Also speaking at the memorial, Inspector General of the Namibian Police Joseph Shikongo reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to ensuring that a thorough and comprehensive investigation is conducted and that all those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice.
Shikongo stated that the collective resolve of the criminal justice system to uphold safety, security and the rule of law will not be undermined by acts of violence against officers or any public servants within the borders of Namibia.
Best mom
In a heartfelt tribute, Shiweda’s children, a nine-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy, described their mother as loving and protective.
“You were the best mother. You took care of me and my sister,” said the youngest, recalling how Shiweda would often encourage him with the words “ndele owuna oondunge nkelo”, meaning “you are so clever, my last born.”
The children recalled that their mother would always protect them, and even on the day she was attacked, she was still protecting them.
Shiweda’s siblings described her as a pillar of the family who supported them financially and emotionally, helping some through university. They pledged to keep her memory alive and ensure her children understand how remarkable their mother was. Friends remembered Shiweda as kind, patient and generous.
“Our friend, our girl Kapandu, our Judy” are some of the affectionate names they called her. They noted how she freely offered shelter, shared guidance, and stood firmly for others even when facing challenges herself.
Neighbours also paid tribute, describing Shiweda as warm, approachable and helpful. “She greeted everyone with a smile, brought life to our street, and was full of jokes. She was a caring mother and a friend to all,” they said.
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