Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, marking a significant achievement in African leadership. The ceremony coincided with Namibia’s independence celebration. Aiming to tackle youth unemployment and promote national unity, she focuses on job creation in sectors like agriculture and fisheries. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election reinforces SWAPO’s dominance despite challenges from the opposition IPC.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made history by being sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, following her election victory that maintained the governing party’s hold on power for 35 years. The ceremony, attended by various African heads of state including leaders from Angola, South Africa, and Tanzania, took place on Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary. The transfer of power was conducted by outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba, who noted the call for breaking the glass ceiling for women in leadership roles in Africa.
The inaugural event was marked by warmth and celebration as Nandi-Ndaitwah, affectionately known as NNN, affirmed her commitment to the nation, highlighting her election as a recognition of her skills and experience. She emphasized that while progress has been achieved since independence, significant work remains to be done. Previously serving as vice president, Nandi-Ndaitwah is a seasoned member of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which led Namibia to liberation in 1990.
In the contentious electoral race, Nandi-Ndaitwah garnered 58 percent of the votes cast in November, amidst delays and challenges. Despite strong competition from the youthful opposition party, Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), which received 25.5 percent of the vote, SWAPO’s longstanding support remains evident. A primary focus for the new administration will include addressing the high levels of youth unemployment, with 44 percent of young individuals aged 18-34 currently out of work in a nation of three million.
Nandi-Ndaitwah has made job creation a key priority, stating, “In the next five years we must produce at least 500,000 jobs,” which would entail an investment of approximately 85 billion Namibian dollars ($4.67 billion). She identified agriculture, fishing, and creative industries as critical sectors for job growth. In her address, she also urged for political unity following election tensions, asserting, “We must build Namibia together” to move forward cohesively.
The inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s first female president marks a significant milestone for female leadership in Africa. With a focus on addressing youth unemployment and promoting unity within the political landscape, her administration aims to build on the progress made since independence. The support for SWAPO remains strong despite emerging opposition, reflecting the party’s long-standing influence within Namibia. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership could pave the way for meaningful changes to improve the economic landscape for the country’s youth.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
