Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president on the 35th anniversary of independence. At 72, she succeeds Nangolo Mbumba and has pledged to uphold the constitution and pursue social and economic advancements. A veteran of SWAPO, she emphasizes good governance and regional cooperation while advocating for marginalized groups and addressing climate change.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has officially been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, having achieved this milestone on Friday. Her ascent to the presidency follows nearly six decades of dedication to the liberation movement that fought against apartheid in South Africa. At 72 years of age, Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes one of the few female leaders in Africa, following the tenure of influential predecessors such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Joyce Banda, and Samia Suluhu Hassan, who were present at her inauguration.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on the 35th anniversary of Namibia’s independence from South Africa. Originally scheduled to be held in a large soccer stadium, the venue was relocated to the presidential office due to heavy rainfall. During the event, Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged to support and protect the constitution in front of leaders from neighboring countries.
Nandi-Ndaitwah takes office succeeding Nangolo Mbumba, who served as acting president since the passing of Hage Geingob. Having previously held the role of vice president, she is now the fifth individual to lead Namibia, a nation that transitioned from a German colony to independence after a prolonged struggle which culminated in 1990.
In her inaugural address, Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed her commitment to safeguarding the achievements of independence and emphasized the need for genuine economic and social progress for all Namibians. As a prominent member of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), she has been involved in Namibian politics since the country’s independence.
Nandi-Ndaitwah aims to uphold ethical governance, promote regional cooperation, and advocate for the rights of marginalized groups, including Palestinians and those in Western Sahara. Furthermore, she has highlighted Namibia’s commitment to addressing climate change challenges that the country faces due to its arid climate. Her husband, a retired general, has been given the title of “first gentleman.” Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency follows swiftly after Namibia’s parliament elected its first female speaker, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political evolution.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration as Namibia’s first female president marks a significant landmark in the nation’s political history and gender representation in leadership roles. Her extensive background in the liberation movement and commitment to ethical governance and social equity demonstrates her dedication to the advancement of Namibia. As she takes on her role, Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged to address pressing issues such as climate change, economic growth, and human rights, while preserving the gains of independence.
Original Source: apnews.com
