Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah sworn in as Namibia’s first female president

Namibia's first female President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah gestures during her inauguration at the State House in Windhoek, Namibia, March 21, 2025. (Photo: REUTERS)

By Rachael Mutabasi
Friday, March 21, 2025

In her inaugural speech, Nandi Ndaitwah recognized the significance of her historic election, emphasizing that Namibians chose her based on her competence and merit.

Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah made history on Friday as she was inaugurated as Namibia's first female president at a colourful ceremony at State House in Windhoek.

The 72-year-old leader, who secured 58% of the vote in November's election, took the oath of office during a ceremony that also celebrated Namibia's 35th independence anniversary.

More To Read

Nandi-Ndaitwah, a lifelong member of the South West Africa People's Organisation (Swapo), which has governed Namibia since the country gained independence in 1990, has long been a key figure in the country's political landscape.

In her inaugural speech, Nandi Ndaitwah recognised the significance of her historic election, emphasizing that Namibians chose her based on her competence and merit.

She acknowledged that although the country has made progress since gaining independence, "there is still much work to be done."

The occasion was graced by a number of Heads of State and Government, including Presidents William Ruto of Kenya, Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, João Lourenço of Angola, Felix Tshisekedi of DRC Congo, Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Duma Boko of Botswana, Daniel Chapo of Mozambique, and Brahim Ghali of Sahrawi, among others.

Namibia's first female president Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah and President William Ruto during the inauguration ceremony at State House Windhoek on March 21, 2025. (Photo: PCS)

In her inaugural speech, Nandi Ndaitwah recognized the significance of her historic election, emphasizing that Namibians chose her based on her competence and merit.

Challenges

According to BBC, Nandi-Ndaitwah inherits a nation grappling with significant challenges, including high unemployment, inequality, and poverty.

"If things go well, it will be seen as a good example. But if anything happens, like it can happen in any administration under men, some would rather say: 'Look at women!'" she remarked.

In a statement celebrating Namibia's historic achievement, President William Ruto extended his congratulations to Her Excellency Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on her inauguration as the country's first female president.

He highlighted the significance of the occasion, which coincided with Namibia's 35th independence anniversary, and praised Nandi-Ndaitwah's extensive track record in public service, leadership, and her role in the liberation struggle.

"We join the people of Namibia in celebrating the historic inauguration of their first female President, Her Excellency Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. It was a double celebration as the country was also marking the 35th independence anniversary," said the head of state in a statement.

President Ruto expressed his confidence that President Nandi-Ndaitwah would lead Namibia to greater progress and prosperity.

He also emphasized Kenya's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Namibia, noting that the two nations would continue to collaborate for mutual benefit.