President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to attend the inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first female president, on March 21, 2025, coinciding with the nation’s 35th Independence Day. Nandi-Ndaitwah, a long-time political figure, secured her presidency despite earlier career challenges and faces the task of leading amidst Swapo’s reduced majority in parliament. The two leaders will discuss strategies to strengthen bilateral relations following the inauguration.
On March 21, 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan will attend the historic inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first female president. This event aligns with Namibia’s 35th Independence Day celebrations. The Presidential Communications Directorate released a statement emphasizing the historical ties between Tanzania and Namibia, rooted in the previous leaders’ collaboration during the liberation struggle for southern Africa. Following the inauguration, President Hassan plans to engage in discussions with President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah to enhance bilateral relations between their nations.
Ms. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, at 72 years of age, is marked as a significant figure in Namibia’s history. Having joined the National Assembly when Namibia gained independence in 1990, she has held various ministerial roles. Although her career faced obstacles due to accusations during a party succession battle, her resilience helped her regain political standing, showcasing her abilities to handle conflicts through non-confrontation, which resonates with her supporters.
In the 2024 National Assembly and presidential elections, over one million voters, representing 73% of registered voters, participated. The South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo) maintained control of the National Assembly, albeit with a reduced majority, securing 53.4% of the votes. In the presidential election, Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah achieved 57.3% of the votes, surpassing the previous incumbent, Hage Geingob, yet faced challenges from opposition parties regarding alleged electoral irregularities. Ultimately, the court upheld her victory, paving the way for her impending inauguration.
Born on October 29, 1952, in Onamutai village, Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah was the child of Anglican Reverend Mr. Petrus Nandi and Ms. Justina Nekoto Nandi. Her political engagement began early at St Mary’s Mission School, leading her to chair the Swapo Youth League. Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah was imprisoned for her opposition to apartheid before joining Swapo in exile. Her political career flourished as she held central committee positions and represented the party both regionally and internationally before continuing her studies abroad, culminating in multiple degrees.
As the first female vice president from 2017 and the automatic nominee for the 2024 presidential election, Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah stands on the legacy of Swapo, following a history characterized by integrity and trustworthiness. While opinions on her ability to instigate significant change are diverse, her candidacy is viewed positively, reflecting the potential for continuity within Swapo’s traditional framework. Despite this, she has not drastically challenged the male-dominated political environment.
Though dedicated to conservative values influenced by her strong Christian faith, her political views are frequently seen as traditional. Her positions on issues such as abortion and LGBTI+ rights reveal her reluctance to embrace progressive reforms. However, her education in Soviet ideology and ties with various international relations signify a complex ideological foundation, which she may leverage as president. As Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah assumes her role, she is likely to prioritize stability and continuity while managing Swapo’s diminished popularity since 2019.
The upcoming inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female president highlights a historical milestone for the nation. Supported by her long-standing political career and strong party affiliations, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership is expected to focus on continuity within the political framework of Swapo and navigate the challenges associated with the party’s declining popularity. President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s attendance at the ceremony reflects the enduring ties between Tanzania and Namibia, underscoring the significance of this momentous occasion.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
