On September 5, 2025, at Ohakweenyanga Village in the Oshana Region, a solemn memorial service was held to honor the life and legacy of the late Lieutenant General (Retired) Solomon Dumeni Hawala, a towering figure in Namibia’s liberation struggle and the nation’s defense. His Excellency Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, Fourth Former President of the Republic of Namibia, delivered a heartfelt message paying tribute to Hawala’s unwavering patriotism and profound contributions to Namibia’s independence.
Dr. Mbumba recalled the famous Cuban saying, “Patria o muerte, venceremos” (“Homeland or death, we shall overcome!”), which symbolized the global fight against colonialism and oppression. He emphasized that Namibia’s freedom was secured through the sacrifices of countless patriots like Hawala, who exhibited bravery, dedication, and selflessness on the battlefields of the liberation struggle.
Lt. Gen. Hawala’s journey began with his joining SWAPO in 1962 and actively participating in the armed struggle for Namibia’s liberation. He received rigorous military training in Tanzania, North Korea, and the USSR, which equipped him with exceptional battlefield acumen. Known for his strategic leadership, Hawala played a pivotal role in planning and directing combat missions against apartheid South African forces while based in Zambia. As PLAN (People’s Liberation Army of Namibia) Deputy Commander, he was instrumental in safeguarding the revolutionary movement during its most critical periods.
After Namibia gained independence, Hawala joined the Namibia Defence Force (NDF) as a Major General and quickly rose through the ranks to become Army Commander and later Chief of the NDF. His leadership was key in the professionalization and development of the country’s defense forces, leaving a lasting impact on national security.
Dr. Mbumba acknowledged the profound loss to the nation and offered condolences to Hawala’s widow, Colonel (Retired) Laimi Hawala, their children, grandchildren, and extended family. He praised Hawala’s mental fortitude and sacrifices, which paved the way for peace, stability, and unity in Namibia today.
The memorial service was attended by high-level dignitaries, including the President and Vice-President of Namibia, the Prime Minister, members of parliament, regional governors, veterans of the liberation struggle, and traditional and religious leaders, all united in honoring the memory of a true son of Namibia.
In closing, Dr. Mbumba prayed for blessings upon the bereaved family, the veterans of the liberation struggle, and the Republic of Namibia, while asking for eternal peace for the brave soul of Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Solomon Dumeni Hawala.
Lt. Gen. Hawala’s legacy stands as a testament to the sacrifices made for Namibia’s sovereignty and serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations to cherish and uphold the hard-won freedom of the Namibian people.
