By Burnett Munthali

Namibia has marked a historic moment as Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been declared the country’s first female president, following her victory in Wednesday’s presidential election.

The milestone comes after a closely watched election in which approximately 1.4 million Namibians — about half the country’s population — registered to vote. The elections saw participation from 15 political parties vying for the presidency and seats in the National Assembly.

Nandi-Ndaitwah, a seasoned politician and a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment, secured the presidency on a platform emphasizing economic growth, youth employment, and gender equality. Her victory represents a significant shift in Namibia’s political landscape, signaling a growing embrace of women in leadership roles.

In her victory speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed gratitude to the Namibian people for their confidence in her leadership. “This victory is not just mine but belongs to every Namibian who dreams of a better future. Together, we will build a more inclusive, prosperous, and united nation,” she said.

Analysts view her win as a watershed moment for Namibia and a step forward for gender parity in politics across Africa. With her extensive experience, including serving as Minister of International Relations and Deputy Prime Minister, Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to bring a steady hand to governance.

The newly elected president faces a challenging road ahead, including addressing Namibia’s high unemployment rates, economic inequality, and climate-related issues. However, many believe her historic rise will inspire transformative change and energize efforts to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges.

As celebrations continue, Namibia stands at the cusp of a new era, with Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency marking a significant chapter in the country’s democratic journey.