Namibia honors former First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba

Namibia held a memorial service at Parliament Gardens in Windhoek to honor former First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba, recognizing her legacy as a nurse, midwife, and humanitarian.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah praised Pohamba’s dedication to maternal and child healthcare, specifically noting her role in establishing maternity waiting shelters to assist expectant mothers in rural areas. Pohamba’s commitment to public health was shaped by her professional background in nursing and midwifery, which she practiced during the colonial era, the liberation struggle, and following independence. During her exile, she received further medical training in Tanzania and Jamaica.

In addition to her healthcare contributions, Pohamba was recognized for her support of vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities and families affected by HIV/AIDS. Former First Lady Monica Geingos described her as a wise and motherly figure who provided guidance to her successors. Family members also noted her lifelong commitment to compassion and her focus on supporting disadvantaged children and communities.