On March 21, 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan will attend the inauguration of Namibia’s first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Discussions on strengthening bilateral relations will follow the inauguration. Nandi-Ndaitwah has had a storied political career and, despite facing challenges, she emerged victorious in the recent elections, securing her place as a noteworthy leader committed to maintaining her party’s legacy and values amid changing political dynamics.
On March 21, 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania will attend the inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking her historic ascent as Namibia’s first female president. This event will coincide with Namibia’s 35th Independence Day. The significance of this occasion is underscored by the longstanding relations between Tanzania and Namibia, rooted in past leaders’ collaborative efforts during the liberation struggle for southern African nations. Discussions on enhancing bilateral relations between the two presidents will occur alongside the inauguration.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, aged 72, is set to become a pioneering figure in Namibia’s political landscape. She has been an influential member of the National Assembly since Namibia’s independence in 1990 and has held various ministerial roles. Despite facing a temporary setback during a succession dispute, her political career rebounded with the backing of key leaders. Known for her non-confrontational leadership style, Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah resonates with those who appreciate humility in governance.
In the 2024 National Assembly and presidential elections, over one million Namibians participated, with the South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo) securing 53.4 percent of the votes. Although opposition parties contested the presidential election results due to alleged irregularities, the court upheld Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory with 57.3 percent of the vote, leading to her forthcoming inauguration.
Born on October 29, 1952, in northern Namibia, Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah was raised in a large family and exhibited political engagement from a young age. As a former chair of the Swapo Youth League, she opposed apartheid’s oppressive measures. After being imprisoned, she left for exile to join Swapo and later pursued her education in public administration and international relations abroad. Married to a senior military figure, her career has been marked by significant contributions to Namibia’s political landscape.
In 2017, Swapo elected Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female vice president. Her nomination for the presidency was backed by the late President Hage Geingob, who recognized the historical significance of her election. Known for her integrity, she is seen as an effective leader in the fight against corruption. While she is well-regarded, her policies align with traditional Swapo values, indicating a continuity-focused approach to leadership rather than radical reforms.
Despite her achievements, Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s alignment with conservative social policies, particularly concerning abortion and LGBTI+ rights, suggests a nuanced stance in a changing political climate. Her early political training in the Soviet Union informs part of her ideological perspective. As Namibia’s president, she is expected to emphasize stability amidst the Swapo party’s declining popularity since 2019, facing a complex political landscape ahead.
The inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female president marks a significant milestone in the nation’s history. With a career steeped in political resilience and integrity, she is poised to navigate the challenges ahead while maintaining the legacy of the Swapo party. Her leadership, characterized by non-confrontational strategies and conservative social views, will influence Namibia’s political future as she prioritizes stability during a period of change. As Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan participates in this historic event, it highlights the enduring partnership between Namibia and Tanzania, reinforcing the shared historical ties of both nations.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
