Namibia has made history by swearing in Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as its first female president. The 72-year-old leader won the November election with over 57% of the votes, while her closest competitor, Panduleni Itula, secured 26%. Her victory is a major step forward for women in leadership, not just in Namibia but across Africa.

Nandi-Ndaitwah now joins a small group of female African leaders, including Liberia’s Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Malawi’s Joyce Banda, and Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan. These women have paved the way for greater representation of women in politics.

Her inauguration was attended by former leaders Sirleaf and Banda, as well as Tanzania’s President Hassan. The event also marked Namibia’s 35th anniversary of independence, making it a double celebration for the nation. Outgoing president Nangolo Mbumba, 83, officially handed over power during the ceremony.

In her first speech as president, Nandi-Ndaitwah promised to focus on economic growth, job creation, and national unity. She plans to boost employment opportunities in agriculture, fishing, sports, and creative industries. With Namibia facing political divisions, she aims to bring the country together under her leadership.

Speaking about becoming the country’s first female president, she told SABC: “Of course, it’s a good thing that we are breaking the ceiling, we are breaking the walls.”

Namibia is one of the largest producers of natural uranium in the world, supplying countries like France for nuclear energy. As president, Nandi-Ndaitwah will oversee this crucial industry while working to improve Namibia’s economy.

Her leadership marks a new chapter for the country, one that many hope will bring progress, stability, and inclusivity.