WINDHOEK – Axali Doesëb, the esteemed composer of Namibia’s national anthem, will be laid to rest at the Pionierspark cemetery in Windhoek on Saturday. His passing at the age of 69 on October 27, 2023, has been met with national mourning.

According to NAMPA, a state funeral will be held for Doesëb, preceded by a memorial service at Parliament Gardens on Friday. The ministry released a statement on Thursday detailing the arrangements and commemorating Doesëb’s contributions to the nation.

Doesëb’s career spanned over 55 years, during which he made significant contributions as a composer, musical arranger, and performing artist. In 1973, he played a pivotal role in founding the Ugly Creatures, a band that became a staple at Martin Luther High School and earned the affectionate nickname “the people’s band.”

Apart from his musical prowess, Doesëb was also known for his passion for sports, particularly excelling in football. His family’s musical talent greatly influenced his career path, leading him to master various musical instruments.

Doesëb pursued his academic endeavors in music at the Musikschule Herford in Germany, where he earned a music degree. He further advanced his studies with a bachelor’s degree in musicology from the University of Marlborough in the United Kingdom.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to music composition and cultural enrichment in Namibia, Doesëb was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Namibian Annual Music Awards in 2014. His legacy in Namibian music and culture remains deeply cherished and celebrated.