Helao Shityuwete, Robben Island freedom fighter, dies at 92
Helao Shityuwete, a former Robben Island political prisoner and anti-apartheid activist, has died at the age of 92. He is remembered as a fearless freedom fighter and a humble man committed to freedom, equality, and humanity. Shityuwete spent 18 years imprisoned on Robben Island for his role in the liberation struggle. His death leaves Betuel Nuunyango as the only surviving member of the 37 Namibian nationalists incarcerated on Robben Island during the 1960s. Former parliamentarian Ben Ulenga, who was imprisoned with Shityuwete, described him as jovial, determined, and resilient, noting his Angolan roots and passion for storytelling, which was evident in his book 'Never Follow the Wolf'. Swapo deputy secretary general Uahekua Herunga described Shityuwete as a fearless freedom fighter who was prepared to sacrifice his life for Namibia's liberation. Former prime minister Nahas Angula highlighted Shityuwete's perseverance, noting his journey to Tanganyika and back to Namibia in 1965 to establish a liberation front. Angula stated that Shityuwete and his group were pioneers in bringing the liberation struggle back to Namibia, forming part of the early efforts to establish an armed liberation front called the South West Africa Liberation Army Swala. Shityuwete was among 37 men tried under the South African Terrorism Act in September 1967, found guilty in 1968, and released in 1984. Born in Angola, he moved to Namibia at age 10 and attended St Mary's Mission Odibo, where he met Andi
