Tribute to Dr Hage G. Geingob

During the last three weeks, we have listened to heartfelt tributes and messages of condolences from all over the world. They were befitting tributes to a man who indeed was larger than life.

As we struggle to come to terms with what happened on that fateful Sunday, the 4th of February, we continue to reflect on the life of our beloved president, His Excellency Dr Hage G. Geingob. His life was truly impactful. He touched many lives, both at home and abroad. His legacy will continue to inspire us.

Michael Josephson, a law professor on ethical leadership in a poem titled “Living a life that Matter” wrote, and I quote in part:

“What will matter is not what you bought but what you built; What will matter is not what you got but what you gave; What will matter is not your success, but your significance; What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught; What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched and empowered others; What will matter is not your competence, but your character; What will matter is how long you will be remembered and for what.

Josephson concluded this poem by saying “Living a life that matters does not happen by accident; It happens by choice”.

President Geingob indeed lived a life that mattered most. He was well-known for his generosity, being a master teacher, and his empowerment of others. He was a significant man of impeccable track record. I believe that he made a choice very early on in his life, to live a life that mattered.

His inclusive leadership style will be sorely missed, and his towering presence shall continue to reverberate in the corridors of State House. We shall forever be grateful for what he has done for the people of Namibia, and for having been the voice of the voiceless in Africa and beyond. Go well, the People’s President, Go well, distinguished son of the soil,

Go well, son of the great triangle.

You have run a good race, You have finished the course, You have kept the faith.

May your revolutionary soul find eternal peace.