Mbumba Honors Namibian Women for Historic Achievement in Leadership

Outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba praised Namibian women for their election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the first female president, a milestone in the country’s history. Mbumba noted the near gender parity in parliament and reflected on his experiences in office while mourning the loss of President Geingob.

Nangolo Mbumba, the outgoing president of Namibia, has paid tribute to Namibian women for achieving significant heights of power, notably with the election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the first female president, marking a historic moment in the nation’s 35 years of independence. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration highlights a new chapter in which she becomes the first elected female president in Southern Africa and only the second on the African continent after Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia.

During his farewell address at State House, Mbumba expressed his contentment with the country’s progress towards gender equality, noting near 50/50 representation in parliament, thanks to the ‘zebra style’ adopted by political parties to promote gender parity. This approach aligns with Southern African Development Community policies aiming for equal political representation.

Mbumba stated, “Friday 21 March will symbolize the pinnacle of our nation’s efforts to ensure that Namibian women are empowered. Our Namibian women and girls will break the glass ceiling by ascending to the highest echelons of state power.” He reminisced about his role as vice president and his amicable relationship with his predecessor, expressing hope that they would retire together.

Reflecting on his departure, Mbumba shared his heavy heart owing to the loss of President Hage Geingob, referring to him as his brother, comrade, and friend. Mbumba lamented, “Most regrettably, I am the only one who can say my goodbye today.”

Appreciating the support he received from Namibians following Geingob’s passing, Mbumba remarked on the mixed nature of his presidency, which he found both enjoyable and challenging, ultimately fulfilling his goal to complete Geingob’s term.

President Nangolo Mbumba commended Namibian women for their historic election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the country’s first female president. He highlighted the significant progress towards gender equality in political representation, reflected in parliament’s near 50/50 gender ratio. Mbumba expressed his mixed feelings upon leaving office, especially in light of the recent loss of President Hage Geingob, while acknowledging the warm reception he received from citizens during his tenure.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na