Renthia Kaimbi
Walvis Bay is mourning the passing of businessman John Savva, whose death has drawn tributes from across Namibia.
Savva was celebrated for his business success and generosity but his life also touched a key chapter in Namibia’s history, the reintegration of Walvis Bay.
He came to Namibia from Cyprus 59 years ago with little but determination and a dream, often working as a barman to build a future.
Through decades of hard work, he became a pillar of the Walvis Bay community, creating generational wealth through ventures in property development, including the Afrodite Beach project, the Venus Supermarket, and the Atlantic Hotel, which he owned.
Savva served as president of the Walvis Bay branch of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) for 25 years until 2016.
His influence extended beyond business. He donated the Yanni Savva Police Station, built classrooms, and funded a school laboratory.
Historical records show that Savva was among the prominent Walvis Bay residents who engaged with the Joint Administrative Authority (JAA) in the early 1990s.
The JAA was jointly managed by South Africa and Namibia to guide the reintegration of the Walvis Bay enclave. He interacted with figures such as Nathaniel Maxuilili, Jack Brown, Manuel de Castro, Bryce and Sue Edwards, Willem Pronk, Buddie Bramwell, Jan Wilken, Paul Fisher, Derek Klazen, Dirk van Rhyn, Eric and Toensie Mouton, Theresia and Frans Samaria, EP van Rooyen, Chris Kleinsmith, Wentworth Mouton, Luis Bastos, Hafeni Ndemula and King Mandume Muatunga.
Walvis Bay Business Chamber president Johnny Doëseb remembered Savva as a “visionary leader, mentor, and father figure” whose leadership helped shape the town’s economic growth.
Erongo Regional Council chief regional officer Mupenzeni Ntelamo described him as a gentle giant whose humanitarian work left a lasting impact.
He recalled Savva’s generosity, from donating a school laboratory and providing linen and mattresses for fire victims to sponsoring Christmas parties for senior citizens.
“The legacy of his benevolent giving, from health to social support, will remain in the hearts of all of us,” Ntelamo said.
“The Regional Council attaches great value to the man whose life we are celebrating. He had an immeasurable friendship with the regional leadership and contributed immensely to the development of the residents of this region.”
Namport chief executive officer Andrew Kanime described Savva as a trusted partner and mentor.
He said Savva’s Atlantic Hotel served as an informal extension of the port, where ideas, partnerships, and relationships were built.
Kanime recalled their first meeting, saying, “From my very first encounter, Mr Savva’s caring heart and instincts had already come to the fore by reaching out to the stranger that I was, wanting me to succeed.”
He said Savva was known for holding court at his round table in the hotel, a spot from which he could see every movement.
“You couldn’t just sneak in… he would always invite you to join him, and more often than not, you would end up staying until very late. We will surely miss his generosity and caring heart.”
Musician Morocky Mbwalu, known as The Dogg, honoured Savva as a devoted father figure.
“You were not only a brave man but also a deeply loving father whose presence shaped my life in countless ways,” he wrote.
Remembering Savva’s character, he said, “You were a protector by nature, a man who led with quiet strength and unwavering love… your guidance, laughter, and steady hand are memories I will hold close.”
John Savva is survived by his wife, Roulla, his two daughters, grandchildren, and brother.
