WINDHOEK, Namibia — In a momentous ceremony coinciding with Namibia's 35th independence anniversary, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as the country's first female president. This historic event marks a significant milestone for Namibia and the African continent and highlights the growing presence of women in leadership roles.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, a veteran politician and member of the ruling South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who served in a transitional capacity following the death of former President Hage Geingob in 2024. Prominent African leaders, including South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa and Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa, attended her inauguration, underscoring regional support for her presidency.
Background and Career
At 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah brings a wealth of experience to the presidency. She has been an integral part of Namibia's political landscape since its independence in 1990, serving in various cabinet positions, including Minister of Women's Affairs and Child Welfare, Information and Broadcasting, Environment and Tourism, and foreign affairs. In February 2024, she became Namibia's first female vice president, setting the stage for her current role.
Election and Mandate
Nandi-Ndaitwah won the presidential election with a decisive 57% of the vote, extending SWAPO's rule since independence. Her victory reflects the trust placed in her by the Namibian people and her party's enduring influence in the country's political landscape.
Inaugural Address
In her inaugural speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the need to preserve the gains of independence and push forward the agenda of economic and social advancement. She called for unity and collective effort to achieve shared prosperity for all Namibians. Her message resonated with the theme of independence and the aspirations of the Namibian people.
“As we celebrate this historic moment, let us remember that my appointment is not just a milestone for women, but a testament to competence and merit. We must preserve the gains of our independence and push forward with vigor to achieve economic and social advancement. Our path forward includes diversifying our economy, creating jobs, and ensuring universal health coverage. We will derive maximum benefits from our resources through value addition and stand strong against corruption. Let us unite to build Namibia together, fostering a future where every citizen can thrive.”
The presence of several African heads of state at her inauguration highlights the regional significance of her presidency. Nigeria, among other countries, extended congratulations to Namibia on its independence anniversary, praising the nation's progress in peace, democracy, and sustainable development.
Implications for Africa
Nandi-Ndaitwah's ascension to the presidency is a positive step for gender equality in African leadership. Her appointment aligns with broader calls for increased female representation in key decision-making roles across the continent, as emphasized by figures like former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
As Namibia embarks on this new chapter, Nandi-Ndaitwah's leadership is poised to contribute significantly to the country's future development and its role in regional and international affairs. Her presidency marks a promising era for Namibia and serves as a beacon of hope for women's empowerment in Africa.
BREAKING NEWS ... Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah etched her name in the annals of history on Friday after being sworn in as Namibia’s first woman president.
— The Namibian (@TheNamibian) March 21, 2025
She was sworn in by chief Peter Shivute at State House in Windhoek, with the event witnessed by various heads of state from Africa… pic.twitter.com/sEO4cHsPHy
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