Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made history on March 21, 2025, when she became Namibia’s first female president.
At 72 years old, her election is a major step forward for gender representation in her country and across Africa. She is now only the second woman in Africa to be directly elected as president.
Election and Inauguration
She won the presidential election in November 2024 with 58% of the votes, defeating opponents including Panduleni Itula.
Her inauguration took place during Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary and was attended by regional heads of state and dignitaries.
Outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba handed over power at a ceremony that had to be moved to the State House due to heavy rain.
Career and Legac
Nandi-Ndaitwah has a long history in leadership. She has served as vice president, foreign minister, deputy prime minister, and is an important member of the SWAPO party.
She is known as a former freedom fighter. She joined the liberation movement in her teens, lived in exile, and helped Namibia gain independence from apartheid.
Before becoming president, she advocated for women’s rights. She played a key role in passing important laws like the Combating of Domestic Violence Act (2003) and has pushed for gender equality for many years.
Impact and Significance of victory
Nandi-Ndaitwah now leads a country facing challenges like unemployment, income inequality, and land disputes.
Her government has prioritized progressive issues, including job creation with a goal of “500,000 new jobs,” improvements in agriculture, and offering free tertiary education starting in 2026.
She quickly appointed women to important roles, making Namibia the first African country where women hold the top three government positions—President, Vice President (Lucia Witbooi), and Speaker of the National Assembly (Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila).
Regional and Global Recognition
Her election is viewed as a significant advancement for gender equality in leadership. She joins other female African leaders like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia), Joyce Banda (Malawi), and Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania).
Nandi-Ndaitwah said:
“I was not elected because I’m a woman, but on merit. Women are capable members of society “
” Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency marks a historic breakthrough for women’s leadership in Namibia and Africa. She is recognized as a symbol of progress and a reformer who promises bold action on jobs, education, and gender equality” visit here
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