08 Jul 2021

The Ovambanderu community in Botswana is mourning the death of their paramount chief in Namibia.

Kgosi Kilus Nguvauva died on July 1 in Namibia after a short illness.

The elder brother to the deceased, who is also a leader of Ovambaderu tribe in Botswana, Kgosi Manuel Nguvauva confirmed in an interview that his brother succumbed to COVID 19.

He said the Ovambanderu community was reeling in shock following his untimely demise, but urged them to remain calm and steady. He described his brother as a hero who played a key role in promoting unity amongst his tribe both in Botswana and Namibia. Distance, he said, was not a barrier as the late chief ensured that Ovambanderu in general enjoyed his warmth and love.

He said his brother treated all equally noting that he had excellent relations with everyone. 

He also appreciated that his late brother enjoyed cordial relations with Batawana royal authority.

 Kgosi Nguvauva explained that Kgosi Kilus Nguvauva always honored Batawana royal activities and Ovambanderu events in Botswana.

 “We have lost an icon, an active and loyal member who was passionate about his work,” he said.

Kgosi Nguvauva also noted that the paramount chief had plans to meet President, Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi to show a special gratitude for providing refugee and support to his people during difficult times.

Some of his communities flew to Botswana to seek refugee following a terrible period in Namibia.

The late chief Nguvauva, he said, was grateful that his people had a good stay in Botswana as they enjoyed peace and tranquility that reigned in the country.

Kgosi Kilus Nguvauva would be laid to rest on July 17 in Namibia and his brother said a date would be set to celebrate his life in Botswana since many would not be able to attend the funeral due to movement restrictions.

An elderly Sehithwa resident, Mr Zacharia Nguvauva, said the late chief would be remembered by many as an icon who ensured that his tribe embraced unity in all their dealings.

He also stated that the late paramount chief believed in preserving their rich culture adding that he was a resourceful person who was knowledgeable in history.

Mr Nguvauva recalled that their paramount chief played a key role in ensuring that cultural events such as Otjingirine were commemorated in Botswana. 

The colourful event held at Dhaoga settlement near Maun, brought together the community across the country and Namibia to share joy of rebirth and resurrection of their community following a terrible period of death and destruction.

“Our paramount chief has never missed the event as he understood its importance and we will ensure his legacy is sustained,” he added.

 The elderly Nguvauva described the late chief as a man of integrity, a jolly person and an icon who would be dearly missed by all. Ends