REMEMBERING COMMANDER TOBIAS MWAFANGEYO HAINYEKO THROUGH THE WORDS OF LT. GEN. MARTIN SHALLI

REMEMBERING COMMANDER TOBIAS MWAFANGEYO HAINYEKO THROUGH THE WORDS OF LT. GEN. MARTIN SHALLI Lieutenant General Martin Shalli, former Namibian diplomat and military commander, and a member of the extended family of the late Commander Tobias Mwafangeyo Hainyeko, shares powerful memories about one of Namibia’s most important historical figures. According to Shalli, he remembers Tobias as a remarkable man who, during his time in northern Namibia, was among the first to introduce things that were unfamiliar to many people at the time—including bringing white women, known locally as Oshilumbu, and children to the north. He also recalls Tobias as one of the first men he knew who ate with a knife and fork, reflecting the unique experiences he gained during his life and travels. Shalli further speaks about the rich family connections and heritage surrounding himself, including links between Ondonga and Oukwanyama, and families such as Hainyeko and Shalli, connected to powerful traditional families and historical places including Nghililewanga, Shinangolo and Hamukoto Wakapa. He also shares a traditional warning concerning the name “Shilodi,” saying that families should be careful when giving this name to a child because of the historical and cultural beliefs associated with it. Shalli says he appreciates the Government of Namibia for recognizing Commander Tobias Hainyeko by naming places after him, including the Tobias Hainyeko Constituency. However, he questions why the constituency remains among the poorest in Namibia despite carrying the name of such an important national hero. Nearly 59 years after the death of Commander Tobias Hainyeko, his remains have still not been recovered. Shalli emphasizes that the location of Tobias's body remains an important historical question and that his family continues to value his legacy. The body may still be missing, but the history, courage and legacy of Commander Tobias Mwafangeyo Hainyeko must never disappear. 🎥 Tutwala TV will continue bringing you the untold stories, memories and voices of the people who lived through our history. Tutwala TV — Your Trusted Social Media TV Taking You There, Showing You Our History. #TutwalaTV #TobiasHainyeko #MartinShalli #NamibianHistory #AfricanHistory #Oukwanyama #Ondonga #Kashihakumwa #Namibia #UntoldHistory #AfricanHeritage #HistoryMustBeTold