Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, succeeding Nangolo Mbumba. She won the 2024 presidential election with 57% of the votes. In her inaugural speech, she emphasized economic advancement and national unity. Nandi-Ndaitwah, a long-time member of the SWAPO party, has held various ministerial positions and was the country’s first female vice president.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president after winning the election last year. This historic event took place on Friday, coinciding with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary. She succeeds outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba, who assumed office after the passing of former President Hage Geingob in 2024, according to the Xinhua news agency.
As the fifth president since independence in 1990, Nandi-Ndaitwah secured her position with 57 percent of the votes in the 2024 presidential election. In her inaugural speech, she emphasized her commitment to advancing economic and social welfare, stating, “The task facing me, as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia, is to preserve the gains of our independence on all fronts and to ensure that the unfinished agenda of economic and social advancement of our people is carried forward with vigor and determination to bring about shared balanced prosperity for all.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed her optimism for the nation’s future, urging unity among its citizens. “I am optimistic that, as a nation, we can make a success of our country. We must work together as a united people with one heart and one mind,” she added. The inauguration was attended by heads of state from various African nations and leaders from international organizations.
At the age of 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah is a prominent member of the ruling South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), which has governed Namibia since its independence. She has been involved in the party since her early years, taking on various senior roles throughout her career. After entering the National Assembly in 1990, she became a minister in 2000, leading the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Welfare, and subsequently held positions in information, environment, tourism, and foreign affairs. Most recently, she was appointed as the first female vice president of Namibia in February 2024.
The inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female president marks a significant milestone in the nation’s history. With a vision focused on preserving independence gains and promoting social equity, she aspires to unify the nation for collective success. Her extensive experience within the SWAPO party and various governmental roles positions her as a dedicated leader ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
