Namibia has ushered in a new era of leadership with the inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the country’s first female president. The 72-year-old leader was sworn in following her victory in the November 2024 election, making her one of the few women to lead an African nation. Her historic presidency follows in the footsteps of other female African leaders such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, Joyce Banda of Malawi, and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election marks a significant moment in Namibia’s political history, not only because of her gender but also because of her extensive experience in governance, diplomacy, and liberation politics. Having served in various ministerial positions, she brings decades of leadership to the highest office in the country.
A Historic Inauguration Amid Independence Celebrations
The inauguration ceremony, originally planned to be held in a soccer stadium with thousands of attendees, had to be relocated to the official presidential office due to heavy rains. Despite the change of venue, the event remained a momentous occasion, coinciding with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary.
Several high-profile figures attended the swearing-in ceremony, including former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former Malawian President Joyce Banda, and Tanzania’s current President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Their presence highlighted the significance of Nandi-Ndaitwah’s achievement in breaking barriers for women in leadership.
The ceremony also welcomed dignitaries and heads of state from across Africa, including leaders from South Africa, Zambia, Congo, Botswana, Angola, and Kenya. In her inaugural speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah outlined her vision for Namibia’s future, emphasizing national unity, economic development, and social progress.
“The task facing me as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia is to preserve the gains of our independence on all fronts and to ensure that the unfinished agenda of economic and social advancement of our people is carried forward with vigor and determination to bring about shared, balanced prosperity for all,” she declared.
Her speech resonated with many Namibians who have long sought greater economic opportunities and improved living standards. As the first woman to hold the office, her presidency is expected to inspire a new generation of female leaders in Namibia and beyond.
Leadership Transition and Political Journey
Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who had temporarily assumed the presidency following the death of President Hage Geingob in February 2024. She was promoted to vice president after Geingob’s passing and later secured her place as the country’s elected leader.
Her political career spans decades, beginning with her involvement in the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), the ruling party that led Namibia’s liberation struggle against South African rule. She played a vital role in the fight for independence and has remained a key figure in Namibian politics ever since.
From Liberation Fighter to Head of State
Born as the ninth of thirteen children, Nandi-Ndaitwah was raised in a religious household, where her father served as an Anglican clergyman. She attended a mission school, where she later became a teacher. Her political activism began at a young age when she joined SWAPO in the 1960s.
During Namibia’s fight for independence, she lived in exile in Zambia, Tanzania, the former Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom. Her time abroad allowed her to gain international experience, which later shaped her diplomatic and political career.
After Namibia gained independence in 1990, she became one of the country’s most influential political figures. She has held several key government positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Environment and Tourism, and Deputy Prime Minister. These roles equipped her with a deep understanding of governance, economic policy, and international relations.
Commitment to Good Governance and Regional Cooperation
In her first address as president, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the importance of maintaining good governance, transparency, and high ethical standards in public institutions. She pledged to strengthen regional cooperation and enhance Namibia’s role in African and global affairs.
She reiterated Namibia’s stance on international issues, emphasizing support for the self-determination of Palestinians and the people of Western Sahara. Additionally, she called for the lifting of sanctions on Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe, advocating for fair global economic policies that benefit developing nations.
Climate change was another key issue in her speech, as Namibia is highly vulnerable to environmental challenges such as droughts and desertification. She vowed to enhance the country’s climate resilience strategies, ensuring that Namibia plays an active role in global efforts to combat climate change.
Breaking Barriers in Namibian Leadership
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is not the only groundbreaking political achievement in Namibia this year. Just a day before her inauguration, Namibia’s Parliament elected its first female speaker, marking another step toward gender equality in leadership.
Her husband, a retired general who previously commanded Namibia’s armed forces, has been formally recognized as the country’s “first gentleman.” His military experience and leadership background may provide additional insights and support for the new president’s administration.
Women’s empowerment has been a central theme in Nandi-Ndaitwah’s political career, and her presidency is expected to promote greater female participation in governance and decision-making roles. By breaking the highest political barrier, she has paved the way for future generations of Namibian women to aspire to leadership positions.
A New Chapter for Namibia
With her vast political experience and dedication to national progress, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership marks a new chapter in Namibia’s history. As she embarks on her presidency, expectations remain high for economic development, regional cooperation, and social progress under her guidance.
Her government is expected to focus on job creation, infrastructure development, education reforms, and healthcare improvements to uplift Namibians from poverty. She has also pledged to address corruption and promote accountability in all sectors of government.
Her victory and inauguration reflect a growing trend of female leadership in Africa, inspiring women across the continent to strive for political and social empowerment. As Namibia enters this new era, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership will be closely watched, with hopes that she will fulfill her vision of a prosperous and inclusive nation.
