Staff Reporter
Windhoek, November 7 – The passing of Mr. Axali Jakobus Doëseb on October 29, 2023, brought to the forefront a significant deliberation concerning the recognition of his remarkable contributions to Namibia. Following careful consideration, the National Honors Advisory Committee recommended conferring an Official Funeral on Mr. Doëseb, recognizing his invaluable role as the composer of the National Anthem. President Dr. Hage G. Geingob would like to extend his gratitude to the committee for their recommendation.
However, the decision took another course after taking into account the sentiments of the Namibian public and emphasizing the profound importance of The National Anthem as a national symbol. President Geingob elevated the honor to the highest distinction and rank of a State Funeral.
In accordance with the powers vested in the President by Article 32 (3) (h) of the Namibian Constitution, in conjunction with section 3 (1) of the Conferment of National Honours Act, 2012 (Act No. 11 of 2012), His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob officially conferred the honor of a State Funeral on Saturday, November 4, 2023, upon Mr. Axali Jakobus Doëseb, who was born on November 25, 1954, and passed away on October 29, 2023. The honor of a State Funeral is regarded as the highest distinction for a funeral within the Government of the Republic of Namibia.
In anticipation of the State Memorial Service and State Funeral, the National Flag of the Republic of Namibia will be flown at half-mast on dates to be determined following consultation with the family, which will also determine the burial date and location. Additionally, the remains of Mr. Axali Doëseb will lie in state, providing an opportunity for the public to pay their respects.
Mr. Doëseb’s extraordinary contributions to the nation were further acknowledged through his award of all-expenses-paid travel to all countries where Namibia has diplomatic representation. In recognition of his dedicated work as the writer and composer of the National Anthem, “Namibia, Land of the Brave,” a decision made by the government some time ago will see 2 million Namibian Dollars awarded to Mr. Axali Doëseb, with the funds to be paid to his wife and children following his passing.
The Namibian Government commends Mr. Doëseb for his patriotic efforts in building the nation, particularly for assigning the respective copyrights in the words and music of the National Anthem to the Government of the Republic of Namibia. This designation, in line with the National Symbols of the Republic of Namibia Act, 2018, declares the melody, music, and lyrics of the National Anthem to be in the public domain.
The exceptional deeds of Mr. Doëseb in the composition of the National Anthem shine brightly and will remain etched in the collective memory of the nation. During this moment of national sorrow, President Geingob extends his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the people and the Government of the Republic of Namibia to Mr. Doëseb’s wife, Ms. Amalia Doëses, his children, and the entire family. May his soul rest in peace.
