By Enabulele Adesuwa
On 21 March 2025, Namibia made history by swearing in its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. The inauguration marked a significant milestone for both the nation and the African continent, reflecting progress in gender representation within political leadership.
At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah secured victory in the presidential elections, extending the ruling party’s governance, which has lasted for over 35 years. Her inauguration was a grand event attended by several heads of state from neighbouring countries, including Angola, South Africa, and Tanzania. Dressed in traditional blue attire, the newly sworn-in president took her oath of office, symbolising hope and change for Namibians—particularly women and young girls across Africa.
The election saw a strong challenge from the opposition party, Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), which secured 25.5% of the votes. However, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory was not just political but also historic, making her one of the few women to lead an African nation.
In her inaugural speech, she addressed one of Namibia’s most pressing challenges—unemployment, particularly among young people. According to 2023 data, 44% of Namibians aged 18 to 34 were unemployed in a country with a population of just over three million. Nandi-Ndaitwah pledged to increase investment in infrastructure, aiming to expand economic opportunities, enhance productivity, and improve the overall quality of life for Namibians.
Her presidency has sparked discussions across Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where some have called for greater female representation in leadership. A tweet by Chimamanda (@Ode_Luwa) suggested that Nigeria should take inspiration from Namibia by electing a female president. However, others have expressed concerns, with one user noting that a female president in Nigeria could face significant political challenges and harassment.
In conclusion, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency represents a pivotal moment for Africa, potentially inspiring greater female participation in politics and governance across the continent. As her leadership unfolds, all eyes will be on how she tackles key national issues, including youth unemployment, infrastructure development, and economic growth in Namibia.