This marks a historic milestone with the swearing-in of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the Namibia’s first female president. On March 21, 2025, this groundbreaking moment coincided with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, marking a new chapter in the nation’s political history.
As a veteran of the liberation struggle against apartheid South Africa, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory in the November 2024 elections with 57–58% of the vote underscores her influence and leadership within the ruling SWAPO party.
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 vigor and determination to bring about shared, balanced prosperity for all,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
A Historic Inauguration Amid Challenges
She was the ninth of 13 children, her father was an Anglican clergyman, and she attended a mission school that she also later taught in. She joined SWAPO as a teenager in the 1960s and spent time in exile in Zambia, Tanzania, the former Soviet Union and the United Kingdom in the 1970s and 1980s.
She had been a lawmaker in Namibia since 1990 and was the foreign minister before being appointed vice president.
The inauguration ceremony was initially scheduled to take place at Independence Stadium, but due to heavy rains, the venue was shifted to State House. The event drew high-profile dignitaries, including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who, like Nandi-Ndaitwah, is part of a growing cadre of female leaders in Africa. She follows in the footsteps of other trailblazing women, such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Joyce Banda of Malawi.
“Today, we break new ground, not just for women, but for every Namibian dreaming of progress.”
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah stated
A Political Trailblazer with a Legacy of Leadership
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has played a pivotal role in Namibian politics for decades. She has served in several key government positions, including Vice President, Foreign Minister, and Minister of Environment and Tourism. She assumed the presidency following acting President Nangolo Mbumba, who took office after the passing of President Hage Geingob in February 2024.
Her ascent to the presidency is not just a personal victory but also a symbol of women’s empowerment in African politics. Her leadership marks a significant step towards greater gender representation at the highest levels of governance.
Namibia is witnessing one of its “foremost daughters breaking through the glass ceiling”, outgoing leader Mbumba said. “It has been a long time coming.”
A Vision for Namibia’s Future
In her inaugural speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah laid out a bold vision for economic growth, job creation, sustainable development, and political integrity. Her administration has pledged to address some of Namibia’s pressing challenges, including youth unemployment, economic diversification, and corruption.
1. Economic Diversification & Employment Creation
Namibia’s economy has historically relied on mining and extractive industries, but Nandi-Ndaitwah aims to shift focus towards agriculture, infrastructure, and manufacturing. By attracting investment in these sectors, she seeks to stimulate job creation and reduce the country’s dependence on volatile commodity markets.
“In the next five years we must produce at least 500,000 jobs, adding it would require an investment of 85 billion Namibian dollars $4.67bn” she stated on South Africa’s national broadcaster SABC.
2. Renewable Energy & Sustainability
With Namibia’s vast solar and wind resources, the new president is positioning the country as a leader in renewable energy in Africa. Her administration will focus on green energy projects that boost economic resilience and create sustainable job opportunities.
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3. Healthcare & Anti-Corruption Measures
Expanding universal healthcare in Namibia is a priority for Nandi-Ndaitwah’s government. Additionally, she has vowed to crack down on corruption, a longstanding issue that has eroded public trust in governance.
4. Foreign Policy & Global Alliances
Continuing Namibia’s strong stance on international affairs, Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed the country’s support for Palestinian and Western Saharan self-determination. She also called for the lifting of sanctions on Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe, advocating for global solidarity and diplomatic cooperation.
Election Challenges & Political Landscape
The November 2024 elections were marked by ballot shortages and technical issues, leading to opposition disputes. However, after a legal review, Namibia’s Supreme Court upheld the election results in February 2025. While SWAPO retained power, its declining parliamentary majority signals a shift in the nation’s political climate, with growing calls for improved governance and economic reforms.
A Defining Moment for Namibia & African Women Leaders
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is a testament to Namibia’s political evolution and the increasing role of women in leadership across Africa. As she embarks on this journey, she faces the monumental task of balancing economic transformation, political stability, and social progress.
Her tenure will not only shape the future of Namibia’s economy and governance but also serve as an inspiration for women in politics across the continent. With the world watching, her leadership is set to redefine Namibia’s place in Africa’s political and economic landscape.