Namibia has made history with the inauguration of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the country’s first female president.
Her swearing-in ceremony, which coincided with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, was attended by several African dignitaries, including former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah has had a long and distinguished career within the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), which has governed Namibia since its independence in 1990. She joined the liberation movement nearly 60 years ago and has held key positions, including deputy prime minister and minister of international relations and cooperation.
In her inaugural speech, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed her commitment to upholding the Namibian Constitution, promoting good governance, and advancing economic and social development. She also emphasized the need for regional cooperation, tackling climate change, and advocating for the rights of people in Palestine and Western Sahara.
A notable moment during the ceremony was the introduction of her husband, a retired general, who was officially recognized as Namibia’s first “First Gentleman,” symbolizing a shift in traditional gender roles.
