Masisi pays tribute to Dr. Hage Geingob

Representatives from Namibia, led by President Nangolo Mbumba, conveyed their profound gratitude to President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the people of Botswana. The occasion marked a solemn Memorial Service, honoring the life and contributions of Namibia's esteemed leader, Dr. Hage G. Geingob.

President Geingob's passing on February 4th, 2024, left a profound void in the hearts of Namibians, but their grief was shared and supported by their Botswana neighbors. President Masisi's immediate response, personally visiting President Geingob during his illness and offering condolences to the bereaved family, spoke volumes about the enduring friendship between the two nations.

The memorial in Gaborone was a fitting tribute to President Geingob, highlighting his journey as a freedom fighter and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of Namibia. It was in Botswana where Dr. Geingob found refuge during exile, and where his resilience and determination were forged in the face of adversity.

Masisi shed light on the profound historical ties between Botswana and Namibia, underscoring their intertwined journey through liberation struggles and hailed the deceased as a towering statesman, whose life was deeply connected to both nations.

Masisi revealed that Geingob's roots in Botswana ran deep, having been born in the district of Grootfontein and later finding refuge in Francistown, specifically at Plot 7440, affectionately known as the 'white house.' Here, amid the tumult of the liberation movement, Geingob joined fellow members of the South West Africa Peoples Organization (SWAPO) in their struggle against colonial oppression.

The President highlighted Botswana's pivotal role as a sanctuary for those fleeing persecution, recounting how families across the country warmly welcomed and supported exiles from various African nations. This generosity, he noted, transformed Botswana into a beacon of refuge for freedom fighters and liberation icons.

Among these luminaries was Samora Machel, who found solace in the homes of Batswana such as PG Matante in White City, Francistown, Peleng in Lobatse. Nelson Mandela, too, sought refuge in Botswana during the arduous fight for freedom, emphasizing the nation's significance as a haven for those dedicated to securing the liberties of their people.

Masisi underscored the enduring bond between Botswana and Namibia, tracing it back to the arrival of the Herero refugee group led by Umohona Samuel Maherero in 1904. Since then, both nations have been united in their shared pursuit of liberation and self-determination.

In recounting this history, President Masisi celebrated the profound connection between Botswana and Namibia, honoring the legacy of those who sacrificed and fought for freedom on both sides of the border.

President Mbumba reminisced about President Geingob's early days, emphasizing his inclusive leadership style that transcended ethnic and political divisions. From his tenure as Chief Representative of SWAPO to his presidency, Dr. Geingob remained dedicated to serving the Namibian people, leaving behind a legacy of progress and unity.

The bond between Presidents Masisi and Geingob was one of brotherhood and shared vision. Their collaborative efforts, such as the initiative to use Identity Documents as travel documents between Namibia and Botswana, epitomized their commitment to regional cooperation and economic development.

As the mourning period continues, President Mbumba urged both nations to honor President Geingob's values of unity and good neighborliness. His legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration as Namibia and Botswana strive towards a brighter future for their citizens.