President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed concern over the growing number of cancer cases in Namibia, describing the disease as a killer that requires greater public awareness. She made these remarks at a memorial service for former first lady Penehupifo Pohamba in the Ohangwena region. Nandi-Ndaitwah credited Pohamba with contributing to cancer awareness through her leadership and involvement in initiatives addressing breast, cervical, and prostate cancer in Africa.
Nandi-Ndaitwah praised Pohamba's efforts in mobilizing Namibian people to understand how to handle cancer, which has become a significant health challenge in the country. Pohamba received the global inspirational leadership award in Dubai and served as the chairperson of the forum of African first ladies on breast, cervical, and prostate cancer in Africa. Her contributions to cancer awareness have been recognized nationally and internationally.
The president described Pohamba as a freedom fighter, healer, mother, and servant leader who dedicated her life to serving Namibia. She referred to Pohamba as "Kambosho" and highlighted her selfless service, whose legacy will endure in the hearts of generations to come. Nandi-Ndaitwah also reflected on their relationship, describing Pohamba as an older sister and fellow comrade.
According to Nandi-Ndaitwah, Pohamba's life was characterized by hard work, discipline, humility, and resilience, values that should continue to guide the country. The president emphasized the importance of adopting these values to overcome the challenges facing Namibia, including the growing concern of cancer. She urged Namibians to work together to address this health challenge.
The memorial service was held at Okanghudi in the Ohangwena region, where Pohamba's contributions to the country were celebrated. Nandi-Ndaitwah paid tribute to Pohamba's leadership and commitment to serving the nation. The event brought together people from across the country to pay their respects to the former first lady.
Cancer has become a significant health challenge in Namibia, with various types of the disease affecting citizens. Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized that all types of cancer need attention in the country, including breast, cervical, and prostate cancer. She called for greater public awareness and involvement in initiatives addressing cancer.
The president concluded by emphasizing the importance of remembering Pohamba's legacy and continuing her work in addressing cancer and other health challenges in Namibia. Key initiatives and programs aimed at addressing cancer will continue to be implemented, ensuring that her contributions to the country are not forgotten.
Key points
- President Nandi-Ndaitwah describes cancer as a growing concern in Namibia, requiring greater public awareness.
- Pohamba received the global inspirational leadership award in Dubai for her contributions to cancer awareness.
- Nandi-Ndaitwah credits Pohamba with contributing to cancer awareness through her leadership and involvement in initiatives addressing breast, cervical, and prostate cancer in Africa.