Africa-Press – Namibia. OTJIWARONGO – Hundreds of Otjozondjupa region inhabitants on Saturday flocked to the Otjozondjupa Regional Council Hall in Otjiwarongo to receive the remains and pay their respects to their former governor and parliamentarian, James Unomasa Uerikua.
Uerikua died in a car accident over the Easter weekend, along with his 14-year-old son, Venturo.
The regional council on Saturday hosted a memorial service to honour Uerikua’s legacy and for the region’s residents to bid farewell to the late renowned leader, who served as governor of Otjozondjupa from April 2020 to March 2025.
A member of the Swapo party, Uerikua served as a member of the National Assembly from 2025 until his death.
While serving as a member of Parliament, he chaired the Parliamentary Standing Committee on International Relations, Defence and Security.
Amongst the many family members, colleagues, close friends and mourners was former First Lady Monica Geingos, who described the late Uerikua as a focussed, visionary and intentional leader whose impact will forever be remembered.
“Young people saw hope in James, and even the older generation respected him because of the respect that James had for the elderly. We are not mourning the titles that James had; we are mourning the person of James, the spirit and selflessness that he served with. James made people feel seen, heard, respected and represented.
He understood the role of leadership and the seriousness that comes with it, and above all, he was unapologetically ambitious in whatever he embarked upon,” said Geingos.
Otjozondjupa governor John //Khamuseb said his immediate predecessor, Uerikua, elevated the region’s status and was always at the forefront of championing development across the board.
“As one of Namibia’s youngest governors, his passion for agriculture, infrastructure, and youth empowerment left a lasting mark on the Otjozondjupa region, among many other notable achievements,” //Khamuseb reflected.
Vibrant leader
Additionally, Swapo MP and close friend Marlyn Mbakera delivered an emotional tribute highlighting Uerikua’s vibrant personality and unwavering commitment to service.
“Losing James and his son is a future taken too soon,” Mbakera said, her voice tinged with deep sorrow as she reflected on Uerikua’s loud, confident voice and his commanding presence that energised every room he entered.
The Windhoek High School, where Venturo was a grade 8 learner, also paid their tribute.
“Venturo was a valued member of the Windhoek High School family, and his loss is felt deeply by his fellow learners, teachers, and the entire WHS community. He will be remembered for his presence, his journey just beginning, and the impact he had on those around him. During this incredibly difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate this profound loss,” the school said on their official social media platforms.
All-season comrades
Similarly, Uerikua’s close friend Marius Sheya, a fellow Swapo member of Parliament and former governor of the Kunene region, delivered a poignant tribute, where he expressed disbelief at speaking of Uerikua in the past tense as he reflected on the deep bond they shared. “James was a brother of all seasons, a man who loved the people of Otjozondjupa with all his heart,” Sheya said, as he concluded his tribute with a soulful song, encapsulating the community’s collective grief and respect for the young leader.
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