President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia's first female President this morning.
Right from the onset, she took a stand to forge the nation forward, receiving a standing ovation in recognition of the women leaders who have paved the way.
A sense of pride and anticipation filled the air as President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, a seasoned leader with a legacy of dedication and courage, officially assumed the highest office in Namibia.
Her ascent to the Presidency is a symbol of the progress Namibia has made, not only in terms of women's leadership but also in the ongoing struggle for gender equality.
She also acknowledged those who played pivotal roles in organising the women's conference in Beijing— marking an era that helped shape women's leadership and strength.
Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted her advocacy for gender equality, stating that society should not downplay the role of any group, especially women, in shaping the social, political, and economic landscape.
She highlighted the Swapo Party's bold decision to adopt a 50/50 representation policy in leadership roles, which the government followed, leading to more women in key positions.
While acknowledging that global gender equality is still a work in progress, she noted that Namibia has made significant strides, though more remains to be done.
"I believe that having been elected as President of my country will encourage women from all walks of life to stand up to be counted, with a clear understanding that I was not elected because I am a woman, but on merit. That is to say, as women, we should not ask to be elected to positions of responsibility because we are women, but because we are capable members of our societies to hold those positions."
President Nandi-Ndaitwah has laid out a clear agenda for Namibia's future, focussing on tackling unemployment, improving education, and promoting sustainable economic development.
She aims to strengthen Namibia's global standing through economic partnerships and regional cooperation.
She also believes a green revolution is possible with Namibia's resources, boosting agriculture to meet food needs and supply raw materials for manufacturing and thus driving industrialisation and job creation.
"The diversification of our economy will generate additional revenue to finance development and to enhance and expand social safety nets. It will also create jobs to take care of the unemployed, the majority of whom are the youth. Opportunities will be created for the effective participation of the youth in the various sectors of our economy through targeted financing; training, mentorship and internship programmes. As part of the youth empowerment programme, the government will promote the various sports codes and invest in appropriate infrastructures to enable our sportsmen and women to compete effectively in the international arena. Attention will also be given to the creative industry to make space for our people to bring out their talents."
Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to deepening regional integration through SADC and AU, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area.
She further reaffirmed Namibia's support for peaceful conflict resolutions and the rights of Palestine and Western Sahara to self-determination and called for the lifting of sanctions against Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also reflected on the legacy of the late Founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma, and all the leaders who played a significant role in Namibia's liberation, acknowledging their contributions that paved the way for her inauguration.
As Namibia's first female president, Nandi-Ndaitwah brings a wealth of experience, having served in various key government positions, including as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
Her vision for the nation focuses on strengthening democracy, promoting gender equality and driving economic innovation.