Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president after winning 57% of the vote in the 2024 elections. The ceremony coincided with the country’s 35th independence anniversary. She has a distinguished political career, having held various senior positions in the SWAPO party since independence.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president following her victory in the 2024 elections. Her swearing-in took place on Friday, aligning with the celebration of Namibia’s 35th anniversary of independence. She succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, the interim president who assumed office after the passing of former President Hage Geingob this year, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Winning the presidential election with 57 percent of the votes, Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes the fifth president of Namibia since its independence in 1990. In her inaugural address, she expressed her commitment to maintain the achievements of independence while advancing the economic and social well-being of the citizens. “The task facing me, as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia, is to preserve the gains of our independence on all fronts and to ensure that the unfinished agenda of economic and social advancement of our people is carried forward with vigour and determination to bring about shared, balanced prosperity for all,” she stated.
The inauguration ceremony was witnessed by numerous heads of state from various African nations, as well as representatives from international and regional organizations, signifying the importance of this historical event.
At the age of 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah has been a prominent figure in Namibia’s political landscape, having served in various capacities within the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) party since its inception. She joined SWAPO during the fight for independence and has held several key governmental roles, including ministerial positions in the Ministries of Women Affairs, Information and Broadcasting, Environment and Tourism, and Foreign Affairs. In February 2024, she made history again by becoming Namibia’s first female vice president.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration as Namibia’s first female president marks a significant milestone in the country’s political history. Her leadership is poised to focus on preserving the gains of independence and fostering economic and social development. As she begins her presidency, the support from both domestic and international communities will likely play a crucial role in achieving her ambitious goals for the nation.
Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com
