Gurirab’s nation building immeasurable: Pohamba

WINDHOEK, 21 JUL  – The late Theo-Ben Gurirab worked to strengthen public service administration and service delivery during his tenure as the Prime Minister of Namibia, former President Hifikepunye Pohamba has said.
Speaking during the state memorial service in honour of Gurirab here on Friday, Pohamba emphasised that the late former lawmaker was one of the leading figures who helped set the trajectory of Namibia’s foreign policy.
“We are celebrating the life of a man whose efforts and contribution to our nation building are immeasurable,” said Pohamba.
He noted that Gurirab’s contribution to Namibia’s freedom and independence started before the existence of many Namibians today, adding that his legacy will echo into the generations to come.
Pohamba further said many Namibians have shared and tapped immensely from Gurirab’s wisdom and intellect.
“In our celebration of his life, we should reflect on the journey every Namibian shared and challenges overcame in building the country.”
At the same occasion, Founding President Sam Nujuma said despite the fact that Namibians are burdened by the sorrow of Gurirab’s death, the nation should indeed celebrate a life well spent, of a father, husband, seasoned diplomat and statesman that Namibia has produced, as well as one of the heroes of the liberation struggle.
“He had an abiding interest and passion for the art and craft of diplomacy in international relations which helped in Namibia’s diplomacy, negotiations and forming alliances, leading to reaching agreements,” said Nujoma.
He said no one in Namibia embodied and personified the concept of international relations better than Gurirab.
Nujoma said the recognition of Swapo as the sole and authentic representative of the Namibian people came about as a result of the efforts of a team of skilled negotiators, led by the late Gurirab.
“Swapo’s political and diplomatic status grew from that of a petitioner on the sidelines of diplomacy to one of the participants in the international arena,” said Nujoma.

NAMPA