Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as Namibia’s first female president, marking a historic moment in the country’s political landscape, Al-Jazeera reported.

At 72 years old, Nandi-Ndaitwah assumed office on Friday, following her victory in last year’s election, which secured an extension of the ruling SWAPO party’s dominance after 35 years in power.

The inauguration ceremony, originally planned for the Independence Stadium, was moved to the State House due to rare heavy rains.

The event was attended by heads of state from across Africa, including leaders from Angola, South Africa, and Tanzania.

Outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba, who handed over power to Nandi-Ndaitwah, acknowledged the historic significance of her election.

Namibia is witnessing one of its “foremost daughters breaking through the glass ceiling”, outgoing leader Mbumba said. “It has been a long time coming.”

Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is commonly referred to as NNN, received a warm reception, with loud applause and ululations as she took her oath of office.

In her inaugural speech, she recognised the historical achievement but emphasized that her election was a result of competence and merit, not just gender.



https://punchng.com/namibias-first-female-president-nandi-ndaitwah-sworn-in/