Berlin, Germany – German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier hailed the late Namibian leader Hage Geingob as a “formative statesman” who pursued reconciliation with Germany “despite the heavy burden of our history.”
Geingob, who died on Sunday aged 82, served as Namibia’s third president from 2015 and played a crucial role in the country’s independence struggle. He was a key figure in forging a path of reconciliation with Germany, acknowledging the brutal colonial past that included the first genocide of the 20th century.
Steinmeier recognized Geingob’s efforts, stating, “Germany remains committed to the path of reconciliation and coming to terms with the genocide.” He also highlighted Geingob’s “decades-long struggle for the liberation of Namibia from apartheid.”
Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed these sentiments, calling Geingob “a partner committed to the process of coming to terms with Germany’s colonial history.” He noted their recent conversation about the ongoing reconciliation process, in which Geingob expressed hope for its successful conclusion.
However, the path to full reconciliation remains complex. While Germany acknowledged the genocide in 2021 and pledged €1.1 billion in development aid, negotiations on a formal agreement with Namibia, including potential compensation for the descendants of victims, are currently stalled.
Despite this, Geingob’s legacy as a champion of reconciliation is undeniable. As South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated, “President Geingob was a towering veteran who played a pivotal role in Namibia’s liberation and extended solidarity to South Africa during our struggle.”
