Geingos pays tribute to Pohamba

Staff Writer

Former First Lady Monica Geingos has paid tribute to her predecessor, Penehupifo Pohamba, describing her death as “devastating” and crediting her with shaping her own tenure in the role.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Geingos recalled that Pohamba oversaw a “gracious handover” when Geingos succeeded her in 2015.

“She expanded my idea of what was possible as a First Lady,” Geingos said.

“From our first conversations to our most recent, she opened her heart and offered wisdom without judgement and counsel without condition.”

Geingos described Pohamba as a trusted adviser, noting that her late husband, President Hage Geingob, would encourage her to consult “the old lady” during difficult moments.

Pohamba also served on the First Lady’s Advisory Council, established in November 2016.

Highlighting Pohamba’s background as a trained midwife and registered nurse and her history as an exiled freedom fighter, Geingos said she carried “that same spirit of care” into her advocacy for maternal and child health, HIV and AIDS, cancer prevention, and women’s empowerment.

Geingos noted that Pohamba served as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies Against HIV from 2011 to 2013, establishing its secretariat in Addis Ababa.

She further stated that Pohamba drove the formal approval of staffing and operational structures for what is now the Office of the First Spouse.

“She served with authenticity, distinction and with a quiet but focused authority,” Geingos said.

“Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, most of them far from any spotlight.”

Geingos extended condolences to former President Hifikepunye Pohamba, the couple’s children and grandchildren, and the wider family.

“While we cannot carry your immense grief, we mourn with you, and we love you,” she said.

Photo: One Economy Foundation

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