Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah: Namibia’s First Female President Prepares to Lead
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is set to become Namibia’s first female president after winning the election with 57% of the vote. She has an extensive political background, having served as vice president and deputy prime minister. Her administration will focus on economic growth and agricultural improvements, with specific plans for food security and necessary legislative reforms to facilitate these goals.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is poised to become Namibia’s first female president, following her election victory confirmed by the Supreme Court, with 57% of the vote against her closest competitor, Panduleni Itula, who garnered 26%. Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who held the presidency for 13 months. This historic inauguration is set to take place on Friday, marking a significant milestone in Namibian politics.
Nandi-Ndaitwah has extensive experience, having served as vice president and former deputy prime minister. Her rise within the Swapo party began with her election as vice president in 2022, leading to her candidacy for the presidency in the recent elections. She indicates readiness to govern, having been prepared for this role by the Swapo party, stating, “I am prepared.”
The newly elected president highlighted priorities outlined in the Swapo election manifesto, aimed at fostering economic growth, enhancing agricultural practices, and improving youth empowerment initiatives over the next five years. Nandi-Ndaitwah aims to address legislation that supports these objectives quickly, particularly referencing the Land Act.
A recent swearing-in of 96 National Assembly members occurred, with Swapo holding 51 of these seats. Nandi-Ndaitwah has completed the drafting of the Land Bill, expecting it to be presented to the assembly shortly. Among her key initiatives, food security will be prioritized, aspiring to cultivate 130,000 hectares of land within the next five years.
In her pre-inaugural activities, Nandi-Ndaitwah visited various agricultural projects, asserting the need for rigorous utilization of government-acquired land. She anticipates selecting cabinet members who are committed to ensuring effective governance and service delivery, emphasizing, “As head of state, I have a responsibility to create a balance between the government, the executive and the legislature.”
In conclusion, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election as Namibia’s first female president signifies a landmark moment in the country’s political landscape. She arrives in office equipped with a robust manifesto emphasizing economic growth and social empowerment. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s commitment to legislative reform, particularly regarding land use and food security, illustrates her proactive approach to governance, as she aims to foster effective service delivery among her cabinet and across governmental branches.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
