Terrace Bay staff cherish memories of Nujoma – NWR

Namibia's founding president Dr Sam Nujoma had a strong connection with Terrace Bay, a place where he could enjoy one of his greatest passions – fishing.His last visit to the resort was in 2021.In a statement, Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) spokesperson Nelson Ashipala said that as the years passed and age began to take its toll, NWR staff assisted Nujoma by fishing on his behalf, with Nujoma teasingly demanding that they catch fish as big as he would have.Ashipala said Nujoma's connection with Terrace Bay was so significant that one of its houses was named after him – 'Tate Sam Nujoma’s House,' as it is commonly known.The house remains a popular choice for regular anglers.Additionally, his enthusiasm for fishing led to a well-known fishing spot named in his honour, 'Nujoma’s Fishing Hole'.Terrace Bay is an angler's paradise offering an exceptional coastal experience inside the famous Skeleton Coast Park in north-west Namibia. The NWR resort is located about 300 km from Henties Bay.Cherished memories One of the most notable aspects of Nujoma's visits to Terrace Bay was his informal interactions with NWR staff and visitors.“He walked around the resort freely, without security details, engaging with those around him," Ashipala said. Resort manager David Nekwaya recalls Nujoma calling staff together at the restaurant to share childhood stories.“We would remind him, ‘Tate, we have to attend to our clients now,’ but he would insist we return later, as he had more stories to share." These storytelling sessions became cherished moments for those who had the opportunity to listen.Ashipala said Nujoma’s appreciation for Terrace Bay was not limited to personal retreats.He frequently invited close associates, including late Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, to join him on fishing trips.“Their shared experiences contributed to the history of this location,” said Ashipala.A jewel Beyond fishing, Nujoma took great pride in maintaining Terrace Bay's cleanliness and sustainability.Ashipala said Nujoma initiated cleaning campaigns, treating the place like his own jewel and ensuring it remained pristine for future visitors.And he went even further. “His commitment to the area extended beyond environmental efforts. He played a crucial role in assisting the camp with establishing a primary school, Sam Nujoma Primary, to complement the existing clinic and police station," Ashipala said. Nujoma’s dedication to the development of Terrace Bay demonstrated his vision for a well-rounded and sustainable community, he added.“His presence at Terrace Bay will be remembered as we reflect on his passing. His legacy remains in the ocean waves, the stories told by those who knew him, and the fishing lines cast into the waters of the 'Nujomas fishing hole'. His influence and love for the place will continue to be felt for years.”

Terrace Bay staff cherish memories of Nujoma – NWR

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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Terrace Bay staff cherish memories of Nujoma – NWR

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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