Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, marking a historic milestone approximately 60 years after she joined the liberation struggle against apartheid. Her inauguration coincided with Namibia’s independence anniversary, and she pledged to uphold the constitution and promote economic and social advancement. As a veteran of the SWAPO party, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasizes good governance and regional cooperation while addressing climate change challenges.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made history as Namibia’s first female president, being sworn into office on Friday. This significant milestone came nearly 60 years after her engagement in the liberation movement against apartheid South Africa. At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah joins a select group of female leaders in Africa, including Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Joyce Banda of Malawi, both of whom attended her inauguration alongside the current President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The swearing-in ceremony coincided with the 35th anniversary of Namibia’s independence but was moved from a stadium to the official presidential office due to inclement weather. In her oath, Nandi-Ndaitwah committed to uphold the constitution in front of distinguished guests from South Africa, Zambia, Congo, Botswana, Angola, and Kenya. She succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who served as acting president following the death of President Hage Geingob in February 2024.
As just the fifth president in Namibia’s history, Nandi-Ndaitwah hails from the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), the party that led Namibia’s independence movement. She emphasized her responsibility to build on the nation’s independence gains, advocating for economic and social progress to ensure prosperity for all. Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed good governance and ethical standards in public institutions.
Her commitment extends to promoting regional cooperation, advocating for Palestinian and Western Saharan rights, and calling for the lifting of sanctions against Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. Additionally, she highlighted Namibia’s efforts in addressing climate change, a critical concern for this arid nation of approximately three million people. Her husband, a retired general, was given the title of “first gentleman.” Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration followed Namibia’s Parliament electing its first female speaker, marking another significant gender milestone for the country.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration as Namibia’s first female president marks a historic achievement for both her and the nation, reflecting progress in gender representation within African leadership. Her commitment to uphold the constitution, advocate for good governance, and address pressing social and environmental issues speaks to her dedication toward advancing Namibia in the years to come. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership, framed against the backdrop of significant milestones in Namibian history, signals a promising future for the nation’s journey toward balanced prosperity and inclusivity.
Original Source: apnews.com
