Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah Takes Oath as Namibia's First Female President
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Synopsis
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia's first female president during a ceremony celebrating the country's independence. She aims to advance economic and social progress while fostering unity among the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is Namibia's first female president.
- She won the 2024 election with 57 percent of the votes.
- The inauguration coincided with Namibia's 35th independence anniversary.
- She is a veteran member of the SWAPO party.
- Nandi-Ndaitwah previously served in several ministerial positions.
Windhoek, March 22 (NationPress) Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has officially been inaugurated as the first female president of Namibia following her victory in last year's elections.
The ceremony, held on Friday to mark Namibia's 35th independence anniversary, saw Nandi-Ndaitwah take over from the previous president, Nangolo Mbumba, who assumed office after the passing of former president Hage Geingob in 2024, according to a report by Xinhua.
As the fifth president of Namibia since its independence in 1990, Nandi-Ndaitwah secured the 2024 presidential election with 57 percent of the total votes.
In her inaugural address, she stated, "My role as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia is to safeguard the achievements of our independence in every aspect and to advance the economic and social development of our citizens with fervor and dedication, ensuring shared prosperity for all."
"I believe that together, as a united nation, we can achieve great success. We must collaborate as one people with a united spirit and purpose," she emphasized.
The inauguration was graced by heads of state from various African nations and leaders from international and regional organizations.
At the age of 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah is a prominent member of the ruling South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), which has been at the helm since Namibia's independence. She became a member of the party during its fight for independence and has since held numerous high-ranking positions.
Nandi-Ndaitwah began her political journey in the National Assembly in 1990 and took on the role of a cabinet minister in 2000, overseeing the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Welfare.
She has also held positions as the minister of information and broadcasting, the minister of environment and tourism, and the minister of foreign affairs. In February 2024, she made history by becoming Namibia's first female vice president.
