Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been inaugurated as Namibia’s first female president, marking a historic milestone for the nation. The swearing-in ceremony took place on March 21, 2025, coinciding with Namibia’s 35th Independence Day. The event, initially planned for the Independence Stadium, was relocated to the State House in Windhoek due to heavy rains.
At 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah brings decades of political experience to the presidency. A stalwart of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), she has held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister. Her election victory in November 2024, where she secured 58% of the vote, underscores her significant support base.
In her inaugural address, President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized her commitment to economic diversification and tackling unemployment, particularly among the youth. She outlined plans to boost investments in agriculture to enhance domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports. Additionally, she stressed the importance of adding value to Namibia’s natural resources to ensure that citizens reap greater benefits from the country’s wealth.
The new president also unveiled her cabinet, appointing Ericah Shafudah as Finance Minister and Lucia Witbooi as Vice President. The streamlined cabinet, comprising 14 ministers and 7 deputies, reflects her administration’s focus on efficiency and reducing government expenditure. Notably, emerging industries like oil and gas will be managed directly under the president’s office, signaling a strategic approach to these sectors.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is a significant step forward for gender representation in African leadership. She joins a select group of female leaders on the continent, following in the footsteps of trailblazers like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Joyce Banda of Malawi. Her election is expected to inspire greater female participation in politics across Africa.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by numerous African dignitaries, including former leaders and current heads of state, reflecting the continent’s support and recognition of Namibia’s democratic progress. In her speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed optimism about Namibia’s future, calling for unity and collective effort to achieve shared prosperity.
