Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah: Namibia’s First Female Presidential Candidate

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is the first woman elected as Namibia’s president, securing her position in the November 2024 elections. A long-time member of the SWAPO Party, she has held multiple government posts and is an advocate for women’s rights. Her political career flourished after her return from exile following Namibia’s independence in 1990, leading to her significant electoral victory despite challenges.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, born on October 29, 1952, in Onamutai, Namibia, is set to become the first female president of Namibia following her victory in the November 2024 presidential election. A veteran of the SWAPO Party, which was instrumental in Namibia’s independence, she has served in various high-profile government roles, including deputy prime minister and vice president. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s political journey is deeply rooted in her commitment to freedom and women’s rights.

Raised in a large family during the apartheid era in South West Africa, Nandi-Ndaitwah joined SWAPO as a teenager in 1966, leading youth demonstrations against the oppressive regime. Her political activism resulted in arrest and imprisonment in 1973, after which she went into exile. While abroad, she continued her advocacy and earned several academic qualifications, including a master’s degree in diplomatic studies.

Upon Namibian independence in 1990, Nandi-Ndaitwah returned and became a prominent figure in the National Assembly, serving in various ministerial capacities over the years. Notably, she was a key advocate for women’s rights, playing a pivotal role in the passage of the Combating of Domestic Violence Act in 2003. Her leadership within SWAPO has also included positions on the Central Committee and Politburo, where she has served as vice president since 2017.

Nandi-Ndaitwah was confirmed as SWAPO’s presidential nominee for the 2024 election after successfully navigating internal party dynamics following the death of President Hage Geingob. During a tumultuous election day marred by logistical issues, she secured over 57 percent of the vote, besting rival Panduleni Itula, thus solidifying her place in history as Namibia’s first female president. Despite opposition claims concerning election integrity, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory was upheld, and she is expected to take office on March 21, 2025.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s ascension to the presidency marks a significant milestone for gender representation in Namibia. Her long-standing commitment to the SWAPO Party, dedication to women’s rights, and the transformative role she has played in Namibian politics have culminated in her historic election. As she prepares to be sworn in, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency promises to advance both democracy and gender equality in her nation.

Original Source: www.britannica.com