a> to ensure the occupying power <a href="//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Africa" title="South Africa">South Africa</a> released control of South West Africa, he authorised armed resistance in 1966. This began the <a href="//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namibian_War_of_Independence" title="Namibian War of Independence">Namibian War of Independence</a>, which lasted 24 years.</p>
<p>During the struggle, Nujoma took the combat name "Shafiishuna", meaning "lightning", as the name was in his family on his father's side.