Samuel Shafiishuna Nujoma was a freedom fighter who stood up to South Africa in the struggle to liberate Namibia. As the leader of the South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO), Nujoma united Namibians and drew international attention to the fight against South African occupation and apartheid rule, which saw strict racial classifications and reduced the rights of Indigenous peoples.

Nujoma's determination, hard work and love for Namibia paid off when the country became independent in March 1990. He became president and served for 15 years.

He died in Namibia's capital, Windhoek, on Sunday at the age of 95.

Nujoma was born on May 12, 1929, in Etunda, northern Namibia. His mother was an Uukwambi princess by descent. Being the eldest of 11 children, Nujoma looked after his siblings and tended to the family's cattle.

His opportunities for education were limited, but........

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