Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made history on Friday, becoming Namibia’s first woman president after being sworn in during a ceremony at State House in Windhoek.
The event marked a significant milestone for the nation, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of its independence.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, took the oath of office before Chief Justice Peter Shivute in the presence of several African leaders, including Botswana’s President Boko Duma, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The ceremony, initially planned for Independence Stadium, was relocated due to rare heavy rains.
A veteran of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), Nandi-Ndaitwah has been a prominent figure in Namibian politics.
She previously served as vice president and played a key role in SWAPO’s efforts to secure independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990.
Her election victory last November, securing 58 percent of the vote, extended SWAPO’s 35-year rule but was marred by logistical failures that delayed the process and sparked controversy.
Outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba handed over power, describing the moment as a breakthrough for gender equality.
“Namibia is witnessing one of its foremost daughters breaking through the glass ceiling,” he said. “It has been a long time coming.”
The inauguration drew applause and ululations as Nandi-Ndaitwah, affectionately known as NNN, assumed office.
Nandi-Ndaitwah joins a small group of women leaders on the continent, symbolising progress in a region where female representation in top political roles remains limited.
Other women who have served as heads of state on the continent include Tanzania’s Suluhu Hassan, Malawi’s Joyce Banda and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia.
JN/APA