Esther Utjiua Muinjangue expresses confidence in President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, acknowledging her leadership capabilities. This event marks a historic moment for women in Namibia, as Nandi-Ndaitwah will be the first female president in the country and the tenth in Africa. Muinjangue recognizes ongoing challenges for women in politics but remains hopeful that this breakthrough will inspire further female leadership.
Esther Utjiua Muinjangue, the former Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services and the first woman to lead a political party in Namibia, has expressed her confidence in President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Muinjangue stated, “I have full confidence in the abilities of the president-elect. I trust her.” Nandi-Ndaitwah’s upcoming inauguration is historic, as she will become Namibia’s first female president and the tenth female president in Africa, coinciding with the nation’s Independence Day celebrations.
Muinjangue noted that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election has instilled great confidence particularly among women involved in politics and society overall. While she refrained from directly comparing her political leadership experience to that of the Head of State, she acknowledged the ongoing challenges women encounter in leadership positions. “It is widely agreed that women are just as deserving as men when it comes to leadership, but challenges remain in Namibia’s patriarchal society,” she remarked. Muinjangue continues to be optimistic regarding Nandi-Ndaitwah’s capabilities, asserting that support from the public is essential for the new leader to succeed.
Muinjangue has been a significant figure in Namibian politics, advocating for democracy, gender equality, and socio-economic development. She made history in 2019 by winning the National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) presidential race and was re-elected in 2020. Reflecting on her challenges as a female politician, she expressed, “I was judged more harshly than my male colleagues, and my leadership abilities were constantly questioned.” This experience drove her to challenge the norms of masculinity prevalent within the Ovaherero community, which constitutes a large portion of Nudo’s supporters.
Moreover, she recognized the distinct differences between her leadership experience and that of Nandi-Ndaitwah. She explained, “From an ecological systems’ perspective, leadership is about how an individual fits within their environment, and the level of support they receive.” Muinjangue highlighted Swapo’s progressive approach to gender equality with its 50-50 representation in Parliament, while her own journey involved navigating challenges in a predominantly male-dominated political arena. Despite varying experiences, she remains hopeful that this historic moment will motivate more women to seek leadership roles and inspire societal change to remove barriers that hinder women’s progress.
In conclusion, Esther Utjiua Muinjangue’s endorsement of President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah signifies a pivotal moment for women in leadership roles in Namibia. As Nandi-Ndaitwah prepares to assume office amid both historic milestones and societal challenges, Muinjangue’s reflections highlight the importance of support and recognition for female leaders in a patriarchal context. The optimism expressed suggests a future where more women are encouraged to pursue positions of influence and effect change in their communities.
Original Source: allafrica.com
