Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president, following her election in November. She comes from a long history of advocacy in the liberation movement and aims to promote economic and social advancement while upholding good governance. Her swearing-in aligns with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, highlighting strides in gender representation in leadership.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made history as Namibia’s first female president, sworn in during a ceremony on Friday. At the age of 72, she has reached the highest office in her nation following nearly sixty years of dedication to the liberation movement that fought against apartheid South Africa. She was elected in November and 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 along with current Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Coinciding with the 35th anniversary of Namibia’s independence, the inauguration ceremony was moved due to inclement weather from a previously scheduled soccer stadium to the presidential office. During the event, Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged her commitment to uphold the constitution, addressing various dignitaries from countries such as South Africa, Zambia, Congo, Botswana, Angola, and Kenya. She succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who served as interim president following the passing of Hage Geingob.
As the fifth president of Namibia, Nandi-Ndaitwah aims to protect the achievements of independence and to advance the nation’s economic and social progress. “The task facing me as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia is to preserve the gains of our independence on all fronts,” she stated. Her political career spans over three decades, beginning with the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), the ruling party since independence.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s extensive background includes service as Namibia’s foreign minister and as a longstanding lawmaker since 1990. She has expressed intentions to emphasize good governance, ethical standards, and regional cooperation. Furthermore, she has pledged to advocate for the rights of oppressed groups worldwide, including the Palestinians and the citizens of Western Sahara, and to address climate change challenges faced by Namibia.
Accompanying Nandi-Ndaitwah is her husband, a retired general described as the “first gentleman”. Her inauguration is particularly notable as it follows the election of Namibia’s first female speaker in Parliament, marking significant progress in gender representation in the country’s leadership.
In conclusion, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration as Namibia’s first female president marks a historic milestone for the nation, reflecting the progress in gender representation in leadership roles. Her dedication to upholding the country’s constitution, advancing socio-economic opportunities, promoting good governance, and advocating for human rights emphasizes her commitment to guiding Namibia into a more equitable future. As she assumes her role, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s legacy is rooted in over fifty years of service to her country and its people, making her presidency a significant chapter in Namibia’s history.
Original Source: apnews.com
