Humble, hardworking and fair are but a few words being used to describe the late Tomas Koneka Iindji, a seasoned banking executive who died on Tuesday. 

He was 44. 

Iindji, according to key figures who worked closely with him over the years, did not discriminate against local businesspeople.

In death, he has been hailed as a “people’s person”. 

Iindji also served as Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) northern branch chairperson.

Former CEO of NCCI Tarah Shaanika described him as hardworking and always willing to render support to businesses.

“I worked with Iindji when he was a chairperson of NCCI northern branch. He was that man who liked unity. We had a good time working together,” he said, adding that the late Iindji was “a selfless, courteous man”.

“He was full of positive energy. Always smiling. He was always committed to uplifting the economy of this country. We have lost a great leader,” Shaanika said. 

New Era also reached out to Ondangwa mayor Paavo Amwele, who was present at the gala dinner at which Iindji officiated as pledge master recently. 

“We are grateful for what he did for our town. He has always been supporting our town financially whenever we are organising the trade expo,” Amwele reminisced. 

He then credited Iindji for much of the successes of local businesses. 

“Without Iindji, we could not be where we are today. He was a caring man,” said Amwele.  

Also speaking to this publication was Hosea Namusha, the pastor of Othika Elcin Parish, who said Iindji leaves a huge void in their congregation. 

“He supported our church financially. Whenever we were raising funds, he is always present. We lost a great father,” the man of the cloth said. 

Namusha then described Iindji as a God-fearing man, whose love for spreading the gospel was unparalleled. 

“He loved singing with a bright smile. He was a peaceful man,” the clergyman continued. 

On his part, Namibia Local Business Association vice president Kanu Amadhila said the entire rank and file of the association was still coming to terms with the news. 

Amadhila had known Iindji for more than 10 years.

“Iindji was a man of all people. Always happy and smiling. He has helped many businesses to be established and played a crucial role with financial support, especially among the small and medium enterprises sector,” he said.  

More so, Iindji was selfless and had a big vision for the country’s economy, Amadhila continued.

 “His business leadership style was very rare in Namibia,” he said.

He is survived by wife and two daughters.

- fhamalwa@nepc.com.na