Buddy Wentworth dies

Former Deputy Education Minister James ‘Buddy’ Wentworth, who served in the first post-independence government of Founding President Sam Nujoma, died yesterday morning at his home after a long illness. He was 77 years old. Wentworth, a teacher by profession, was current Defence Minister Nahas Angula’s deputy at the time when the ministry was called Higher Education. He was also a member of the Constituent Assembly and was one of those who crafted the country’s Constitution. Wentworth was a staunch Muslim and asked to be buried according to that religion’s traditions. Angula said Wentworth was housebound by his illness and was in and out of hospital for some time. “I remember at the time when he was at the ministry he would from time to time go for medical attention,” Angula told Namibian Sun yesterday. “He was a guiding figure, an older brother and was very congenial as well as co-operative.” According to Angula, Wentworth ensured the full implementation of tasks assigned to the then Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Employment Creation by Nujoma. “We created the first unified education system in the country, proper governing structures for the system and the proper administration of the system.” Wentworth also played a pivotal role in the expansion of the education system to reach all Namibians. “He contributed to the building of this nation and the consolidation of democracy in Namibia. As professional educator he trained many people who are now professionals. “As a nation we must salute and appreciate the contribution of the late Buddy Wentworth.” The director of the Windhoek Islamic Centre, Armas Abdul Malik Shikongo, described Wentworth as an elder who helped shape young people who are now in leadership positions. “I worked with him on a few projects but his major contributions were the roles he served in the country. It is rather a shock for me to hear that,” Shikongo said. Shikongo said Wentworth also ensured that the Islamic Centre in Windhoek acquired its current building. He added that the Muslim community does not have special ceremonies when one of their members dies. “The tradition is to bury the person immediately but the coffin will be brought to the mosque and taken to where it will be buried. “However, seeing that he was a government official the State might want to have special programmes.” Wentworth is the second prominent Namibian to die this week. On Monday, OvaHerero paramount chief, Nudo leader and MP Kuaima Riruako died.