WINDHOEK, Namibia – Namibia made history on Friday, March 21, 2025, as Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, was sworn in as the country’s first female president.
Her inauguration, attended by heads of state from several African nations, including Angola, South Africa, and Tanzania, marked a significant milestone for gender representation in African politics.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election extends the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) party’s 35-year hold on power.
Despite a strong challenge from the opposition Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), which secured 25.5 percent of the presidential vote, SWAPO maintained its dominance in the polls.
In her first address as president, Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged to address Namibia’s economic challenges, particularly unemployment, which disproportionately affects the youth.
According to recent data, 44 percent of 18- to 34-year-olds were unemployed in 2023 in a country with a population of just three million.
“We will increase investment in the development of infrastructure to open investment opportunities, enhance economic productivity, promote economic growth, and improve the quality of life for our people,” she said.
Namibia, one of the world’s leading uranium producers and a country rich in diamonds, faces significant economic disparities.
While it boasts abundant natural resources, wealth inequality remains a pressing issue, with a stark divide between the rich and the poor.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is seen as a beacon of hope for many Namibians, particularly women and young people, who are eager for transformative leadership.
Her administration is expected to focus on job creation, infrastructure development, and economic reforms to address the country’s challenges.
As one of the few women to lead an African nation, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s rise to power is a testament to the growing influence of women in African politics.
Her leadership will be closely watched as she navigates the complexities of governance in a resource-rich yet economically unequal nation.
The swearing-in ceremony was a moment of celebration for Namibia, with many hopeful that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency will usher in a new era of progress and inclusivity.
