Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, marking a historic milestone for the country. The 72-year-old leader won the November election with over 57% of the votes, defeating her closest rival, Panduleni Itula, who secured 26%.
Nandi-Ndaitwah joins a distinguished group of African female leaders, including former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former Malawian President Joyce Banda, and current Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, all of whom attended her inauguration.
The swearing-in ceremony coincided with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, with outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba, 83, formally handing over power. In her inaugural address, Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged to strengthen Namibia’s economy, create jobs, and promote national unity. She emphasized expanding employment opportunities in agriculture, fishing, and the creative and sports industries.
Reflecting on her historic achievement, Nandi-Ndaitwah told SABC, “Of course, it’s a good thing that we are breaking the ceiling, we are breaking the walls.”
Namibia, a leading global producer of natural uranium, plays a crucial role in supplying the radioactive metal to nuclear power-producing nations, including France. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is expected to bring renewed focus on economic growth and development in the country.
