NAMIBIA has ushered in a new era of leadership with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announcing her first Cabinet on Saturday. In a historic move, she appointed Lucia Witbooi as the country’s first-ever female vice president, marking the first time an African nation is led by both a female president and vice president simultaneously.
Nandi-Ndaitwah presided over the swearing-in ceremony in Windhoek, naming 14 ministers—eight of them women—and seven deputy ministers to her new administration. The appointments underscore her administration’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance.
‘I have no doubt that we will deliver on what the people of Namibia have mandated us to do,’ Nandi-Ndaitwah declared during the ceremony.
A first for Africa: women at the helm
With this announcement, Namibia becomes the only African country to have women occupying both the presidency, vice presidency and speaker of parliament. President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s decision to appoint Lucia Witbooi, a seasoned politician and advocate for social justice, signals a major shift towards gender parity in leadership roles.
The president also stressed that this Cabinet will focus on inclusive development and addressing long-standing socioeconomic issues. ‘The functions of marginalised and disability affairs will be placed in the office of the vice president to ensure they get the attention they need,’ Nandi-Ndaitwah explained.
She called on Namibians to give her new Cabinet a fair opportunity to implement their policies and work towards national priorities.
Tackling poverty and social inequality
Eradicating poverty stands at the top of Nandi-Ndaitwah’s agenda. She made it clear that government ministries must focus their programmes on addressing economic disparity and uplifting disadvantaged communities.
‘We are fully committed to addressing the pressing issues that affect ordinary Namibians, including poverty and social inequality,’ she said.
By moving oversight of marginalised groups and disability affairs to the vice president’s office, the government aims to ensure a more coordinated and responsive approach to these challenges.
Key appointments reflect inclusivity
Other key appointments include Elijah Ngurare as Namibia’s new prime minister. Ngurare, known for his experience in governance and environmental affairs, will lead the government’s executive branch. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi was named minister of international relations and trade, bringing her diplomatic expertise to the role at a time when Namibia seeks to expand its global partnerships.
The strong presence of women in senior government positions signals a shift in Namibia’s political landscape and serves as a milestone for gender representation across Africa.
Namibia leading by example
President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s historic leadership marks a turning point not only for Namibia but also for the continent. Her government’s composition demonstrates that gender inclusivity is achievable at the highest levels of leadership.
Analysts note that this development is likely to inspire other African nations to prioritise gender equity in politics and governance.
For Namibians, the new Cabinet offers hope for tangible change. With poverty eradication, social justice, and gender equality on the agenda, many are watching closely to see how this groundbreaking leadership team delivers on its promises.
