By Mercy Gadia Adii
In a groundbreaking ceremony, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president on March 21, 2025. This historic moment marked a significant milestone in Namibia’s journey towards gender equality and representation.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration coincided with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, making the occasion even more momentous. The event was attended by regional leaders, former female heads of state, and visiting dignitaries from South Africa, Zambia, Congo, Botswana, Angola, and Kenya.
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Due to heavy rains, the inauguration ceremony was relocated from the Independence Stadium to the presidential office. However, this did not dampen the spirits of those in attendance, who witnessed Nandi-Ndaitwah take her oath and begin her new role as Namibia’s fifth president.
At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election in November 2024 was a testament to her dedication and commitment to public service. Her political journey began at just 14 years old when she joined the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), the party that led Namibia’s struggle for independence from South Africa.
Throughout her career, Nandi-Ndaitwah has held various positions, including deputy prime minister, minister of international relations and cooperation, minister of environment and tourism, and minister of women affairs and child welfare. Her experience and leadership skills have earned her a reputation as a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, education, and community development.
In her inaugural address, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the need to preserve the gains of independence while ensuring economic and social advancement for all Namibians. She pledged to focus on boosting economic growth, improving social welfare, and enhancing Namibia’s role in regional and global diplomacy.
“The task facing me as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia is to preserve the gains of our independence and ensure that the unfinished agenda of economic and social advancement is carried forward with vigor and determination,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency comes at a crucial time for Namibia, as the country navigates economic challenges, youth unemployment, and sustainable development goals. However, with her determination and vision, she is poised to address these issues and lead Namibia towards a brighter future.
Her lifelong commitment to public service and governance has earned her multiple accolades, including the Inter-Generational Leadership Award at the 2024 Nala Feminist Summit, the Thought Leadership Award at the Namibia Sustainable Development Awards, and an honorary doctorate from the University of Dar es Salaam.
As Namibia’s first female president, Nandi-Ndaitwah joins a select group of female African leaders, including Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, Joyce Banda of Malawi, and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s historic inauguration marks a new chapter in Namibia’s leadership, and her presidency is expected to inspire a new generation of women leaders across Africa.