Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made history as Namibia’s first female president, succeeding Nangolo Mbumba after his interim tenure following President Hage Geingob’s death. The inauguration coincided with Namibia’s independence anniversary but was moved indoors due to severe weather. With a long history in the SWAPO party and a commitment to governance, economic advancement, and climate action, Nandi-Ndaitwah pledges to represent Namibia effectively.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s political landscape after nearly 60 years of her involvement in the liberation movement against apartheid South Africa. At the age of 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeded Nangolo Mbumba, who served as acting president following the death of Hage Geingob in February 2024. Her swearing-in took place on Namibia’s independence anniversary, albeit moved indoors due to heavy rain.
The ceremony drew notable attendees, including former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Malawi’s Joyce Banda, as well as current Tanzanian leader Samia Suluhu Hassan. Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed her commitment to honoring and supporting the constitution and emphasized the need for economic and social advancement in Namibia, aiming for balanced prosperity. With a distinguished history as a member of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), she brings decades of experience, having served as lawmaker and foreign minister since Namibia’s independence in 1990.
In her inaugural address, Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged to uphold good governance and ethical standards, while promoting regional cooperation. She reaffirmed her support for the self-determination of Palestinians and Western Sahara, and called for the lifting of sanctions against Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. Moreover, she highlighted Namibia’s commitment to combating climate change, addressing the threats posed by droughts in the arid country of three million inhabitants. Additionally, her husband, a retired general, has been designated as “first gentleman.” A day prior to her inauguration, Namibia’s Parliament also elected its first female speaker, underscoring the progressive changes occurring within the country’s political framework.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s historic inauguration as Namibia’s first female president signifies progress in gender representation in African leadership. Her extensive political background and commitment to governance, social equity, and climate action position her as a pivotal figure in advancing Namibia’s development. As she embarks on her presidency, collaboration and perseverance will be crucial in addressing the challenges facing the nation while honoring the legacy of independence.
Original Source: apnews.com
