NETUMBO Nandi-Ndaitwah made history on Friday as she was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, leading the mineral-rich nation 35 years after its independence. Her inauguration marks a significant moment for the southern African country, long known for its political stability and vast natural resources.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, often called ‘NNN’, took office at the age of 72, following her election victory in November 2024. According to official results, she secured 58 percent of the vote as the candidate for the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), a political party that has governed Namibia since the country’s independence from South Africa in 1990.
Her presidency ushers in a new era for the nation of roughly three million people, more than 70% percent of whom are under the age of 34, according to the 2023 census.
A SWAPO veteran with deep roots in liberation politics
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s political journey began early. At just 14, she joined SWAPO during Namibia’s liberation struggle. Over the decades, she has risen through the ranks, becoming the first woman to lead the party in 2023. Her loyalty to SWAPO and deep involvement in its political structures made her rise to the presidency unsurprising to many observers.
As a key figure in Namibia’s liberation movement and post-independence governance, Nandi-Ndaitwah has helped shape the country’s modern identity. Her victory in the 2024 presidential elections was seen as an affirmation of SWAPO’s enduring influence, even as the party navigates calls for reform from Namibia’s youthful population.
Decades of government experience
Nandi-Ndaitwah brings an extensive political resume to the presidency. She entered Namibia’s National Assembly in 1990, the same year the country gained independence. Since then, she has held several ministerial roles, including heading the ministries of information, environment and tourism, and foreign affairs.
In 2000, she was appointed Minister of Women’s Affairs and Child Welfare, reflecting her long-standing focus on gender issues. Most recently, she served as vice president—another historic first for a woman in Namibia—before stepping up as president following the death of Hage Geingob and the brief tenure of Nangolo Mbumba.
Conservative on social issues
Raised by an Anglican pastor and educated at a mission school, Nandi-Ndaitwah is known for her socially conservative views. In Namibia, where Christianity is deeply rooted, she aligns with the majority’s stance on key issues. Abortion remains largely illegal in the country, and SWAPO voted against the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2023.
Observers note that her policies reflect both her religious upbringing and her party’s traditional values. These positions are expected to remain firm under her leadership, although economic and governance reforms may be on the horizon to address the needs of Namibia’s youthful population.
A leader with global perspective
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s political experience is complemented by an international education and time spent in exile during Namibia’s liberation struggle. Leaving Namibia at 21, she lived in Zambia, Tanzania, and Russia, where she joined the Soviet-era Komsomol youth movement.
She earned a postgraduate diploma in public administration from Glasgow College of Technology in 1987 and later completed a master’s degree in diplomatic studies at Keele University in England in 1989. This global exposure has shaped her diplomatic approach, and she is known for her skill in foreign affairs, particularly in fostering ties with both Western and Eastern allies.
Namibia’s future under Nandi-Ndaitwah
As she begins her five-year term, Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to focus on maintaining Namibia’s political stability while addressing socio-economic challenges. Youth unemployment and economic diversification remain key concerns. Analysts say her presidency represents both continuity and the potential for gradual change as SWAPO balances tradition with the demands of a younger generation.
