Namibia’s first woman president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, is set to be inaugurated following her election victory that continued SWAPO’s lengthy tenure. At 72 years old, she emphasizes addressing unemployment among youth and calls for national unity post-election. Her conservative stance includes opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage, while her leadership navigates a resource-rich but economically challenged nation.
Namibia is set to inaugurate its first woman president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who won elections last year. This victory serves to extend the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO)’s grip on power, having led the country for 35 years. Nandi-Ndaitwah, at 72 years old, will join the ranks of few female leaders in the region during her inauguration attended by heads of state from neighboring nations such as Angola and South Africa.
Previously serving as vice president, Nandi-Ndaitwah is a prominent figure within SWAPO, which was instrumental in Namibia’s independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990. She garnered 58 percent of the vote in the November elections despite difficulties caused by logistical failures, which led to significant delays. The opposition group, Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), secured 25.5 percent of the votes, which highlights the continued loyalty many Namibians hold for SWAPO, despite changes in other southern African nations.
Unemployment among young residents was a major concern during the elections, as 44 percent of individuals aged 18 to 34 were without jobs in 2023. Prior to her inauguration, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized that addressing unemployment would be a priority, aiming to create at least 500,000 jobs over the next five years. She indicated that achieving this goal would require an investment of 85 billion Namibian dollars (approximately $4.67 billion). Key focus areas for job creation include agriculture, fishing, as well as the creative and sports industries.
After facing political strife during the elections, Nandi-Ndaitwah called for national unity and collaboration. She stated, “We can make our politics during the campaign and so on but once it’s over, we must build Namibia together.” Reflecting on her historic election, she remarked, “Of course it’s a good thing that we are breaking the ceiling, we are breaking the walls.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah, a conservative figure and daughter of an Anglican pastor, is known for her strict opposition to abortion and laws against gay marriage. A member of SWAPO since her youth, she spent time in Moscow during her exile and later served as foreign minister.
Namibia, rich in natural resources like uranium, diamonds, and potentially viable solar and wind energy, is aiming to harness its natural gas and oil deposits. Although there are doubts about the feasibility of expanding renewable energy sectors, the nation remains a key uranium supplier for nuclear power, further underscoring its wealth in natural resources.
The inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first woman president marks a significant milestone in the nation’s political landscape. Her commitment to addressing high unemployment and seeking unity post-election illustrates her leadership approach. Despite facing challenges regarding resource management and socio-political issues, her focus on developing key sectors like agriculture and fishing will be crucial for attempting to uplift the nation. This moment signals not just progress for women in leadership but also reflects Namibia’s ongoing journey towards economic development and stability.
Original Source: www.ecr.co.za
