Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president amid a ceremony celebrating the nation’s 35th independence anniversary. She brings extensive political experience from her previous role as vice president and leadership within the SWAPO party. Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasizes the need for national unity and will prioritize combating youth unemployment, aiming to create 500,000 jobs in the coming years.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president, following her victory in the recent elections that enabled her party to maintain its 35-year hold on power. At the ceremony marking Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba, aged 83, transferred power to Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is 72 years old. This historic event attracted dignitaries from various African nations, exemplifying the significance of her election.
During her inaugural speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah underscored the importance of her competence over mere symbolism, recognizing the progress Namibia has made but acknowledging the need for further advancements. She previously served as the vice president and is a seasoned member of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which spearheaded Namibia’s independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. Nandi-Ndaitwah secured 58 percent of the vote amidst chaotic elections, reflecting strong public support for SWAPO despite competition from the opposition.
The opposition party, Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), garnered 25.5 percent of the vote, reflecting continued allegiance to SWAPO in the context of rising political challenges. The elections also highlighted pressing issues such as high youth unemployment, with 44 percent of 18- to 34-year-olds unemployed. Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged to prioritize job creation, aiming to generate at least 500,000 jobs over the next five years, requiring significant investment across key sectors including agriculture, fishing, and creative industries.
In the aftermath of the elections, Nandi-Ndaitwah called for unity to overcome political divisions, urging all citizens to collaborate in building Namibia. She emphasized that while political campaigning is necessary, the time for national unity and collective progress is now.
The inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female president marks a significant milestone in the nation’s history and in African leadership. Her election, characterized by calls for unity and a focus on pressing issues such as youth unemployment, exemplifies a commitment to progress. With a robust plan for job creation and a hopeful vision for Namibia’s future, President Nandi-Ndaitwah initiates her tenure amidst challenges and opportunities alike.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
