Namibia is mourning the passing of Ambassador Hadino Hishongwa, a freedom fighter and diplomat who played a key role in the country’s independence.
President Hage G. Geingob said he learned with sadness of Hishongwa’s death. “Ambassador Hishongwa was a true son of the soil, a hero of the Namibian liberation struggle, and one whose commitment to the development of the Namibian people shall not be forgotten by current and future generations,” Geingob said.
Hishongwa was born in 1943 in the Omusati region of northern Namibia. He joined the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in 1966 and fought in the liberation struggle against South African rule.
After independence in 1990, Hishongwa served in a number of government positions, including as ambassador to the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Nordic countries. He was also a member of the Constituent Assembly that drafted Namibia’s constitution.
Hishongwa died on Friday at the age of 80. He is survived by his wife, Esther, and their children.
The Namibian government has declared a three-day mourning period in Hishongwa’s honor.
In his tribute to Hishongwa, President Geingob said he was “a selfless and dedicated servant of the Namibian people.” He said Hishongwa’s “exemplary deeds” will be remembered for generations to come.
Geingob also expressed his condolences to Hishongwa’s family and friends. “May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
