Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, succeeding Nangolo Mbumba. Winning the 2024 election with 57% of the vote, she emphasizes unity and advancing socio-economic welfare. Nandi-Ndaitwah, a long-time member of SWAPO, has held multiple leadership roles, most recently serving as vice president.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has officially been sworn in as the first female president of Namibia, following her electoral victory last year. The inauguration took place on Friday, aligning with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary. Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeds President Nangolo Mbumba, who assumed office after the death of former President Hage Geingob in 2024, as reported by Xinhua.
As the fifth president of Namibia since its independence in 1990, Nandi-Ndaitwah garnered approximately 57 percent of the votes in the 2024 presidential elections. In her inaugural address, she emphasized her commitment to preserving the achievements of independence and advancing the economic and social welfare of the Namibian people. She stated, “The task facing me…is to ensure that the unfinished agenda of economic and social advancement of our people is carried forward with vigor and determination.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah articulated her optimism for the nation’s future, urging unity among citizens. “I am optimistic that, as a nation, we can make a success of our country. We must work together as a united people with one heart and one mind,” she declared. The ceremony witnessed the presence of various heads of state from Africa, along with leaders from international and regional organizations.
The new president, aged 72, is affiliated with the ruling South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), a party that has governed since Namibia’s independence. Nandi-Ndaitwah has a long history with the party, having joined during the independence struggle and subsequently holding multiple high-ranking positions, including cabinet minister, minister of information, and minister of foreign affairs. Most recently, she became Namibia’s inaugural female vice president in February 2024.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration marks a historic moment as she becomes Namibia’s first female president. With a focus on unifying the nation and advancing socio-economic development, she aims to uphold the ideals of independence. Her extensive experience in governance and commitment to her country’s progress positions her as a significant leader for Namibia’s future.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
