Five Key Facts About Namibia’s First Woman President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has become Namibia’s first woman president, elected through her party SWAPO, with a significant win in November 2024. She has a long-standing career in government and will serve at the age of 72, leading a youthful population. Known for her conservative views, she also brings a wealth of experience from her years in exile and her academic background.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first woman president on Friday, a significant moment for the nation that gained independence 35 years ago. With a population of approximately three million, Namibia is known for its stability and mineral wealth. Nandi-Ndaitwah, often referred to as NNN, symbolizes a progressive step for female leadership in the country.

A committed member of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) since her teenage years, Nandi-Ndaitwah has been a dedicated supporter of the party, which has ruled Namibia since its independence in 1990. In the November 2024 elections, she garnered 58 percent of the votes, solidifying her position as the party’s presidential candidate and subsequently its first female president.

Nandi-Ndaitwah has had a distinguished governmental career, beginning in the national assembly in 1990. She was appointed as a cabinet minister in 2000, leading the ministry responsible for women’s and children’s affairs. Her portfolio has included notable positions such as Minister of Information, Minister of Environment and Tourism, and Minister of Foreign Affairs. In February 2024, she reached another milestone as the first woman vice president of Namibia.

At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah will serve her five-year term leading a young population, of which more than 70 percent are under the age of 34, as reported by the 2023 census. She succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who took office in February 2024 after the passing of Hage Geingob, Namibia’s previous president who was 82 years old at his death.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s values reflect traditional beliefs, influenced by her upbringing as the daughter of an Anglican pastor. She possesses conservative views on various social issues; abortion remains illegal in most cases within the largely Christian society, and her party opposed gay marriage in 2023.

After spending 15 years in exile, starting in 1974 at the age of 21, Nandi-Ndaitwah resided in countries such as Zambia and Tanzania, as well as in Russia, where she became a member of the Komsomol, a communist youth organization. Her educational credentials include a post-graduate diploma in Public Administration and Management from Glasgow College of Technology (1987) and a master’s degree in Diplomatic Studies from Keele University in England (1989).

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s ascension to the presidency marks a historic milestone for Namibia as the first female head of state. Her extensive political career, loyalty to SWAPO, and conservative views shape her leadership approach. As she assumes office at 72 years old, she faces the challenge of leading a predominantly youthful population, with a commitment to uphold her party’s values amid evolving societal norms. Additionally, her rich background, marked by resilience and academic achievements, underlines her capacity to lead effectively.

Original Source: www.enca.com