Renthia Kaimbi
The late Walvis Bay business leader and honorary consul for Cyprus and Greece, John Savva has been described as a man who contributed greatly to the town’s economic and social development.
He owned Venus Supermarket, the Atlantic Hotel in Walvis Bay, and the Afrodite Beach property development near Dolphin Beach.
His passing on Saturday has drawn tributes from national leaders and the Walvis Bay community, who remembered him as a builder, mentor, and leader.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conveyed her condolences, describing Savva as a key figure in the Walvis Bay business community who played a major role in the economic and social development of the Erongo Region.
She said his passing marked the loss of a loyal son and bridge-builder whose legacy of hard work, humility, and service would endure for generations.
Originally of Cypriot descent, Savva was well known and respected across all sectors of society and maintained a close friendship with former president Nangolo Mbumba.
Mbumba also paid tribute to Savva, describing him as a close friend, a respected business leader, and a man known for his generosity and strong personality.
Mbumba recalled their personal friendship, saying, “As a member of Swapo, he has stood steadfast, through thick and thin. As a personal friend, he has left me with so many great memories to cherish in his absence.”
Walvis Bay Business Chamber president Johny Johnson Doëseb said the town had been left in a deep and painful silence.
He affectionately referred to Savva as “Uncle Savva”, describing him as more than just a businessman or community figure.
“He was a mentor, a brother, an uncle, a friend, and a pillar of integrity.”
Doëseb said Savva believed in local empowerment long before it became a national priority.
“When Walvis Bay needed direction, he was there. When others stayed silent, he spoke up for what was right,” he said.
Walvis Bay mayor Trevino Forbes said the news of Savva’s passing came as a shock.
“I received the news yesterday (Saturday) with deep sadness. Mr Savva’s passing came as a shock to all of us who knew him personally and professionally,” he said. “He was a pillar of the Walvis Bay community, a man whose presence was felt across business and civic life,” said Forbes.
Forbes said Savva had a strong connection to Walvis Bay and its people.
“Mr Savva had a remarkable relationship with Walvis Bay and its residents,” he said, noting his quiet support for schools, churches, and individuals in need. “His passing leaves a great void in the heart of our town,” Forbes said. “The community has lost not only a successful entrepreneur but also a compassionate builder who believed in unity and local growth.”
Through his business ventures, Savva created jobs, supported local suppliers, and strengthened the town’s economic base, contributing to Walvis Bay’s overall development.
Forbes stated that “integrity, innovation, and community spirit” will be the hallmarks of Savva’s legacy.
He said even the palm trees that welcome visitors into town were part of his legacy.
“The best way to honour his memory is to continue building on the foundations he helped lay by fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors and nurturing a spirit of community,” he said.
On behalf of the municipal council, Forbes extended condolences to Savva’s wife, family, and friends, saying his contributions “will be remembered with gratitude.”
Savva’s influence reached beyond business into the heart of his hometown, where he left a lasting legacy of service, community, and leadership.
