Pohamba’s legacy lives on in Ohangwena school

Former first lady Penehupifo Pohamba may be widely remembered for her work in maternal healthcare, but at Kaupumhote Nghituwamhata Combined School in the Ohangwena region, her contribution to education remains part of everyday school life.“People think she only contributed in health. She has done amazing work in the education sector,” School principal Leopold Nashiwaya told Namibian Sun.He remembers her as a mother figure and benefactor who helped improve the school's infrastructure, provided learning materials and encouraged children to take their education seriously.His association with Pohamba dates back to 2013, when she accompanied her husband, then president Hifikepunye Pohamba, and other family members to a ceremony marking the school's renaming.The school was named after the former president's mother, while the couple's daughter, Kaupumhote Pohamba, who was named after her grandmother, became its patron.A family's lasting contributionThrough the Ohangwena regional education office, the school received N$780 000 from the Pohamba family towards the construction of three classroom blocks, as well as another N$50 000 contributed directly from the family's personal funds.Pohamba returned in 2017 with her husband and daughter to celebrate the school's 80th anniversary, during which its patron donated another N$20 000.“Meekulu Penehupifo never missed an opportunity to visit our school and enquire what needs to be done,” Nashiwaya said. “The family would return again, bringing stationery and laptops for learners.”Nashiwaya said Pohamba took a personal interest in the learners, encouraging them to work hard, remain disciplined and recognise the opportunities education could provide.She frequently reminded them that Namibia's future leaders were sitting in classrooms like theirs, and her visits often left a lasting impression.“After she talks to them, you can see a change in behaviour. She is a mother who comes to school to see how the learners are doing. Her commitment is admirable. We have lost an icon, a strong steward in education, a person with a good heart,” Nashiwaya said.Pohamba died on 17 October at the age of 78, leaving behind her husband, five children and grandchildren. She will be buried on Saturday, 31 October, at Okanghudi.

Pohamba’s legacy lives on in Ohangwena school

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Namibian Sun 2026-10-23

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Pohamba’s legacy lives on in Ohangwena school

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Namibian Sun 2026-10-23

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