Story by George Sanzila
Date: 04 October 2024
Windhoek – Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Prof. Peter Katjavivi has described his late wife Jane Katjavivi as a social justice advocate and a staunch promoter of literature, who dedicated her life to preserving the Namibian heritage. Hon. Katjavivi mentioned this at the launch of his late wife’s repacked memoir, entitled “Undisciplined heart”, in Windhoek today (04/10/2024).
The biography, recounts Jane Katjavivi’s early life as a supporter for the freedom of southern Africa while in her native country of England, her marriage to Peter Katjavivi, then Swapo representative for United Kingdom and western Europe, and her transition to author and publisher in her new and independent country of Namibia.
Hon. Katjavivi told family and friends gathered at the event, that included President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba that his late wife played a pivotal role in his personal journey as an exile during the difficult time of Namibia’s liberation struggle. “As I stand here today, I cannot help but reflect on the incredible journey we shared. From the time we met in London, during Namibia’s liberation struggle, to the many challenges and triumphs we experienced together. In all that, Jane was a constant source of strength”, noted Katjavivi.
The Speaker further noted that the memoir inspires unity and a belief that every member of society can make a difference. “In a world that often feels divided, Jane’s story reminds us of the importance of coming together, of standing up for what is right, and of finding strength in being part of a community. It is our hope that this new edition will encourage readers to reflect on their own journeys, just as Jane did, and to be inspired by her unwavering belief that each of us can make a difference”, stated Katjavivi.
Jane Katjavivi lost her life in the presence of her husband while in- flight from the United Kingdom to Namibia on the 9th of August 2022. She was 70. Katjavivi met his wife in London in the 1970’s when he headed the Swapo office responsible for UK and western Europe. At the time she worked for the World university service that assisted many students from Southern Africa including Namibia with scholarships. Jane would eventually become a member of staff within the London Swapo office. The two married in 1981 in Oxford and continued to be part of the struggle for freedom and independence of Namibia.
They returned to Namibia in 1989 shortly before the country’s independence. Jane Katjavivi was a renowned author, former publisher and editor. Her publishing house focused mainly on promoting literature centered on social justice. She was also involved in several other commitments including setting up the UNAM Press and serving institutions such as the FNB Foundation and the Cheetah Foundation among many other voluntary institutions.
