Online Reporter
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of SWAPO party was elected President of Namibia late last year and will take the oath of office as the country’s first female leader at a colourful event tomorrow.
President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, is the current vice president.
She received roughly 57 percent of valid votes in the presidential race, according to a breakdown given by the Electoral Commission of Namibia.
President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah needed to secure more than 50 percent of the votes to secure a win.
Her main challenger in this election was Panduleni Itula from the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party, and came second with roughly 26 percent of votes.
“The Namibian nation has voted for peace and stability,” President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah said after being declared the winner.
She joined SWAPO in the 1960s when it was fighting for independence and has served in numerous senior roles, including Foreign Minister.
‘The time for women is now’
Several Namibian women have praised incoming President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for being elected as the first female President of Namibia.
Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes the first female President in the SADC region and the second in Africa after former Liberian President Ellen Jonson.
With one day to go before she takes her oath of office, Namibians are sharing their views and perspectives on the first female President of their country.
Many women believe her leadership will bring a unique approach to governing.
Namibia human rights activist Rosa Namises expressed confidence in President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah.
“I have been led by women before as I was brought up by my grandmother and mother,” she said. “This is going to be the first time being led by a female President and l am looking forward to it.”
Rural women’s assembly chairperson Hileni Shuudifonya expressed her joy and said Namibian women will be fully represented by the incoming President.
“As rural women, we demand that in the next five years, every woman should have access to land,” she said.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration in March is icing on the cake as the world celebrates Women’s Month.
President Mbumba bids farewell to Namibians
Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba has bade farewell to the Cabinet and Parliamentarians ahead of the swearing-in of President-elect Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah in Windhoek tomorrow.
President Mbumba said he is ready to pass on the baton. He urged the nation to build on the legacy of past leaders and push forward to prosperity.
He reflected on the challenges and triumphs of his 13-month presidency, a period marked by national mourning and resilience.
President Mbumba paid tribute to former President Hage Geingob and founding President Sam Nujoma, who left behind a legacy of leadership and sacrifice
“Despite these painful losses, Namibia stood firm. Our democracy proved its strength and our government remained committed to serving the people,” he noted.
Nandi-Ndaitwah prepares for high office
Meanwhile, President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on Namibians to continue praying for her as she prepares to take on the chores of the high office.
She made the remarks when she attended a service at Onamuti Anglican Church, where she has been a member since her childhood.
“To be a President requires a serious person because all Namibians will look up to me. Running a country is not like campaigning,” she said.
President Mnangagwa leaves for Namibia
President Mnangagwa has left for Windhoek, Namibia, where he will attend the inauguration of Namibia’s President-elect, Dr Ndemupelila Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and the country’s 35th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The presence of President Mnangagwa, who is also Sadc chairperson, at this significant event underscores the importance of regional co-operation and solidarity.
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Namibia Melody Chaurura highlighted the significance of President Mnangagwa’s attendance.
“Today’s inauguration of President Nandi-Ndaitwah is a momentous occasion, not only for Namibia but also for Zimbabwe,” Ambassador Chaurura said.
The bond between Zimbabwe and Namibia, which dates back to their shared liberation struggles, has been strengthened over the years through various agreements and co-operation initiatives.
Who is Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah?
President arrives in Windhoek for independence, inauguration ceremony
President and Sadc chairperson, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Windheok for the inauguration of Namibia’s fifth president and the country’s 35th Independence Day celebrations slated for State House today.
President Mnangagwa was welcomed at the Hosea Kutako International Airport by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, Zimbabwe’s top envoy to Namibia Ambassador Melody Chaurura, Embassy officials and senior officials from the host nation.
Namibia’s first female President, Cde Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will be sworn in this morning at the Independence Stadium.
The inauguration ceremony coincides with the country’s 35th Independence Day.
Cde Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeds President Nangolo Mbumba, who has served as interim leader for a year since the death of President Hage Geingob in February 2024.
Namibia gained independence from Germany in 1990.
President Mnangangwa is accompanied by Finance, Investment Promotion and Economic Development Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr George Charamba and other senior Government officials.
BANQUET VIEWING: Dignitaries and invited guests wait in the State House banquet area ahead of the 35th Independence celebrations and the swearing-in of President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah today. – Observer Namibia
FAMILY SUPPORT … The sisters of incoming President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah have arrived at State House to witness her installation as Head of State. Cde Nandi-Ndaitwah’s sisters are dressed in matching outfits. Video: Shelleygan Petersen – The Namibian
Historic… Former First Lady Monica Geingos is excited to witness the inauguration of Namibia’s first female President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. – New Era Newspaper
Namibia’s President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah has arrived for the inauguration.
She is accompanied by her husband, Retired Brigadier Ndaitwah.
African leaders attend Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration
Apart from Sadc chairperson President Mnangagwa, other Heads of State in attendance are President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia and DRC President Felix Tshisikedi.
President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa and President Brahim Ghali of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic are also among the dignitaries gathered here to witness the historic inauguration of President-elect Nandi Ndaitwah.
South Africa’s former Presidents Jacob Zuma and Thabo Mbeki are also in attendance. – News Live SA
Outgoing President delivers heartfelt farewell speech
Outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba delivered a heartfelt farewell speech, marking the end of his tenure as Namibia’s President.
In his address, President Mbumba thanked Namibians for the opportunity to serve as President, acknowledging the trust placed in him.
He highlighted his efforts to maintain stability and ensure a smooth transition of power during his 13-month presidency.
President Mbumba officially handed over the reins to President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, wishing her success in her new role.
The outgoing President urged Namibians to remain united and support the new administration in its efforts to develop the country.
President Mbumba’s speech was met with applause and appreciation from the gathering.
Nandi-Ndaitwah pledges to serve Namibia diligently
President Nandi-Ndaitwah is now taking the oath of office, with Chief Justice Peter Shivute presiding over the ceremony.
Namibia’s historic moment has finally arrived!
President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has taken the oath of office, becoming the country’s first female President.
This milestone marks a transformative chapter in Namibia’s history.
As President Nandi-Ndaitwah begins her tenure, she’s expected to hit the ground running, with a focus on inclusive development and meritocracy.
This momentous occasion is not only significant for Namibia but also for Africa, as President Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes the third woman to serve as executive head of an African government, after Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Tanzania’s President Suluhu supports fellow woman
Guest of honour Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu takes to the podium.
She commends Namibians for electing a woman into the high office.
President Suluhu also thanks SADC leaders for attending the inauguration ceremony.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasises commitment to sustainable development
In her acceptance speech, President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s thanked Namibians for their trust in her.
She outlined her vision for the country, emphasising her commitment to driving sustainable development.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged to honour the promises she made during her campaign.
“For sustainable development, we will do what we have told you. Thank you for your trust and confidence in me,” she said.
She went on to speak passionately against corruption.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah acknowledged the presence of the Sadc chairperson, President Mnangagwa, and said she is ready to work under the bloc.
Her speech also highlighted Namibia’s progress in achieving gender equality.
Sadc chair congratulates Namibian President
President Mnangangwa, who is also the Sadc chairperson, has congratulated President Nandi-Ndaitwah and her husband Retired Brigadier Ndaitwah following her inauguration as Namibia’s leader earlier today.
Yesterday, Namibia’s President sent a powerful message of unity and cooperation in an exclusive interview with The Herald.
“Zimbabwe and Namibia are one,” she emphasised, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations.
Zimbabwe and Namibia have solidified their diplomatic and political ties as they share a history that dates back to their fight against colonial rule.
And it’s a wrap!
As Namibia’s President Nandi-Ndaitwah goes through the rest of her first day in office, Africa celebrates another milestone.
At 35 years post-independence, Namibia has ushered in its first female leader.
With President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s decades of experience in governance, there was no better person for the top job.
The icing to the cake? When Sadc Heads of State meet next time to address the region’s challenges, there will be two powerful women on the table.
Namibia believes in you President Nandi-Ndaitwah, Africa believes in you. We are right behind you all the way!
