Remembering Penehupifo Pohamba - 'My wife died in my presence'

Former president Hifikepunye Pohamba has recalled the painful moment when his family was summoned to Lady Pohamba Private Hospital in Windhoek to witness the final moments of his wife, former first lady Penehupifo Pohamba.

"My wife died in our presence. We were called to witness her final moments. It is a profound experience to be summoned in that way," he said at his Okanghudi residence on Monday during a condolence visit by an Omusati regional delegation.

The delegation, led by Omusati governor Immanuel Shikongo, included police officials from the northern regions who had travelled to convey their condolences to the former president and his family.

Pohamba expressed gratitude to Namibians who had continued to support the family following his wife's death and thanked police officers for providing security during the mourning period, urging them to remain vigilant.

The former president also confirmed that his wife would be buried at the family cemetery on his property at Okanghudi, where his father and his father's two wives are buried.

A life of service

Shikongo paid tribute to the former first lady, describing her as a woman whose contribution to Namibia extended from the liberation struggle to healthcare and the welfare of vulnerable communities.

"She was a freedom fighter, a devoted Swapo member both in exile and after independence. Over more than three decades, she committed herself to nursing and midwifery, providing counsel to the government on maternal care," Shikongo said.

He said her years as first lady were marked by her commitment to improving the lives of women and children.

“As Namibia's second first lady, she championed maternal and child health, supported vulnerable families, and campaigned against gender-based violence while empowering women. Her legacy as a liberation heroine, civil servant, nurse, and first lady will continue to inspire our nation for generations to come."

Shikongo extended condolences on behalf of the Omusati region to Pohamba, the couple's children and grandchildren, their relatives and the wider family.

Meanwhile, Ohangwena governor Kadiva Hamutumwa announced on Monday that daily memorial services would no longer be held at the Pohamba residence in Okanghudi.

Members of the public wishing to pay their respects may visit the residence daily between 10:30 and 12:00, and again from 16:00 to 17:30.

A memorial service organised by the Anglican Diocese in Namibia is scheduled for Wednesday at Odibo Church, with members of the public invited to attend.

The final memorial service will take place at the Pohamba residence on Friday at 10:00, followed by burial at the Okanghudi family cemetery on Saturday.

Penehupifo Pohamba died on 17 October 2026 at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital in Windhoek.