THE DEPARTURE OF PLAN COMBATANTS – NOVEMBER 1974

THE DEPARTURE OF PLAN COMBATANTS – NOVEMBER 1974

THE DEPARTURE OF PLAN COMBATANTS – NOVEMBER 1974

By Thomas Shilumbu – Katima Mulilo
Thursday, 19 March 2026

During the height of Namibia’s liberation struggle under SWAPO, a significant movement of combatants from its military wing, the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia, took place in November 1974.

On 20 November 1974, a group of PLAN combatants stationed at Oshatotwa were instructed to prepare for departure.

They were told to pack their belongings and remain on standby for imminent deployment. This marked the beginning of a carefully coordinated relocation effort as part of the broader liberation campaign.

By 30 November 1974, the group departed Oshatotwa and traveled to Senanga in Zambia. Upon arrival, they crossed the Zambezi River using a pontoon, signaling their transition into a new operational phase.

Prior to their departure, a SWAPO photographer, Ndjulume, documented the moment by taking both a group photograph and individual portraits of the combatants. These images served as important historical records of the fighters preparing to undertake a difficult mission.

The departure was overseen by Jason Hamutenya Wanehepo Ndadi, also known as Uncle Jason, a member of the SWAPO Central Committee. In his address to the group, Ndadi emphasized that all logistical arrangements had been made.

However, he cautioned the combatants about the harsh realities ahead, warning them that they would face significant hardships, including hunger and other severe conditions.

Before leaving Senanga, the fighters were equipped with military uniforms, water containers, and other essential supplies.

They then continued their journey by Benz trucks toward the Zambia–Angola border. The convoy was accompanied by key figures in the movement, including Maxton Joseph Mutongolume Haiyambo ya Shapumba Joseph and Jackson Kakwambi.

This movement of PLAN combatants highlights the level of organization, sacrifice, and determination that characterized Namibia’s liberation struggle.

The events of November 1974 remain an important chapter in the history of the fight for independence, reflecting both the challenges faced by the fighters and their commitment to the cause.