Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitawah has made history Namibia’s first female president electedReceiving 57% of the vote in the November 27, 2024 election. Representing the ruling SWAPO party, which has ruled Namibia since its independence in 1990, he defeated his nearest rival, Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriotic Change (IPC), who received 26% of the vote.
Born on October 29, 1952 in the northern village of Onamutai, Nandi-Ndaitawah is the ninth of thirteen children in her family. His father was an Anglican priest, and his early life was marked by political activism.
At just 14, she joined SWAPO during Namibia’s fight for independence from South African rule.
Education and early career
Nandi-Ndaitawah pursued higher education in Zambia, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom, earning advanced degrees in international relations and public administration.
After Namibia gained independence in 1990, she returned to playing an important role in nation building, holding several important ministerial positions in her career.
Personal life
Nandi-Ndaitawah is an outspoken advocate for women’s rights. (AP Photo)
She is married to Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah, former head of the Namibian Defense Force, and the couple has three sons. Despite his prominence in politics, Nandi-Ndaitawah maintains a relatively private personal life. Her interests include community work with a focus on children and learning, reflecting her dedication to social development.
Advocacy and leadership
Nandi-Ndaitawah is an outspoken advocate for women’s rights. She was instrumental in getting the Domestic Violence Act passed in 2002 and continues to push for gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated political arena.
Known for her hands-on approach, she often describes herself as an “enforcer” rather than a politician.
In her victory speech, she reaffirmed her commitment to addressing Namibia’s pressing challenges, including economic reform, unemployment and social inequality. “The nation of Namibia has voted for peace and stability,” he declared.
Her election is being celebrated as a transformative moment in African politics in terms of gender representation, while her victory has been contested by opposition parties citing alleged electoral irregularities.
(With credit from Al Jazeera, BBC)