Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president during a ceremony that coincided with the country’s 35th independence anniversary. Winning the 2024 elections with 57% of the vote, she aims to preserve independence gains and promote social advancement. Her extensive political career includes various ministerial roles, culminating in her role as vice president in February 2024.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been inaugurated as the first female President of Namibia, marking a significant milestone for the nation. This ceremony, held on a pivotal day coinciding with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, followed her election victory last year. Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who assumed the presidency after the passing of former President Hage Geingob in 2024, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
As the fifth president since Namibia’s independence in 1990, Nandi-Ndaitwah achieved an electoral win with 57 percent of the votes in the 2024 presidential elections. During her inaugural address, she emphasized her commitment to preserving the accomplishments of independence and striving for the economic and social progress of the citizens.
In her remarks, Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed optimism for the nation’s future, stating, “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.” The inauguration witnessed the attendance of various African heads of state and leaders from international and regional organizations.
A long-time member of Namibia’s ruling SWAPO party, which has been in power since independence, Nandi-Ndaitwah has held several significant positions since joining the party during its independence struggle. She entered the National Assembly in 1990 and served as a cabinet minister from 2000 onwards, holding various ministerial roles, including the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Welfare, Information and Broadcasting, Environment and Tourism, and Foreign Affairs. Most recently, she became Namibia’s first female vice president in February 2024.
The inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female president marks a historic achievement for the nation, illustrating the potential for women’s leadership in governance. With a substantial electoral mandate, she intends to promote economic and social development while uniting the nation to uphold the gains of independence. Her extensive experience in various governmental roles positions her well for the challenges ahead, as she leads Namibia into a new era.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
