Samuel Nujoma: “Father of the Nation” in Namibia

This article explores the life and political career of Samuel (Sam) Nujoma, widely regarded as the “Father of the Nation” in Namibia. It traces his journey from the son of a peasant and a handyman to the leader of a mass political movement and three-term president of Namibia. The study examines the strategies and methods employed by the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) and its armed wing, the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN), under Nujoma’s command, in the struggle for independence. Particular attention is given to the connections between Namibian freedom fighters, Nujoma himself, and the Soviet Union. The article draws on participants’ memoirs, archival documents, and materials from the author’s long-term engagement with Nujoma, spanning nearly half a century, including direct conversations with him both as SWAPO party president and head of state.