British King Charles paid tribute to Namibia’s former President Sam Nujoma, who died at the age of 95, saying his “lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy” was “inspirational” and his “contribution to history was immense.”

Mr Nujoma, who led Namibia to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990 and served as its first president for 15 years, died on Saturday, President Nangolo Mbumba announced.

In a statement on Sunday evening, the UK monarch said, “My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the death of former President Sam Nujoma today.

“President Nujoma’s contribution to history was immense, through his leadership of the long struggle for independence, and his subsequent service of 15 years as the Founding President of the Republic of Namibia.”

He explained that Namibia is a valued member of the Commonwealth and reflected on a visit his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, made to the country in 1991.

“I recall with particular gratitude how much Her late Majesty The Queen enjoyed Her State Visit to Namibia in 1991, hosted so graciously by President Nujoma,” the king said.

He added, “His lifelong commitment to freedom and democracy, overcoming so much adversity on that journey, was truly inspirational.

“It is a testament to the legacy of Dr Nujoma that the Republic of Namibia, as a valued member of the Commonwealth of Nations, still maintains and embodies the values of peace and democracy, which its founding president so keenly promoted and protected.

“Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with the former First Lady, Kovambo Nujoma, their family, and the people of the Republic of Namibia at this dreadfully sad time.”

(PA Media/dpa/NAN)