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

President Nandi-Ndaitwah

|Published 1:30 PM ET, Saturday March 22, 2025|

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Windhoek: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president on March 21, 2025, coinciding with the nation’s 35th independence anniversary. At 72, she joins a select group of female African leaders, following figures like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania. ​

A stalwart of the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), Nandi-Ndaitwah has been instrumental in Namibia’s political landscape since its liberation struggle. Her extensive career includes roles such as deputy minister of international relations and cooperation, director-general of women’s affairs, and minister of environment and tourism. In 2017, she made history as SWAPO’s first female vice president. ​

In her inaugural address, President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized her commitment to economic diversification, job creation, and maintaining high ethical standards in public service. She highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and addressing climate change challenges. ​

To streamline governance and enhance efficiency, she unveiled a reduced cabinet comprising 14 ministers and 7 deputies. Notably, Ericah Shafudah was appointed as finance minister, and Lucia Witbooi as vice president. Shafudah brings over two decades of experience in the finance ministry and has served with the World Food Programme. ​

President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s ascent reflects a broader trend in Southern Africa, where recent elections have signaled significant political shifts. Her leadership is anticipated to usher in a new era of growth and unity for Namibia, with a focus on leveraging the nation’s natural resources for the benefit of all citizens. ​