Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has hailed President Netumbo Ndemupelila Nandi-Ndaitwah for being sworn in as Namibia’s 5th President and the first female President for the South African nation since independence.
Mudavadi said President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election in November 2024 was an inspiration to the women of this continent emphasizing that Friday’s inauguration at State House, Namibia stands out as a testament of hope to many aspiring women leaders globally.
He said this is a milestone in the African leadership as Nandi-Ndaitwah joins the growing list of African women to serve as executive heads of an African government, including former Liberia President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Mauritius’ Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Joyce Banda of Malawi and the current Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan among others.
“Today, we witness a progressive reflection of the democratic will and spirit of the people of the republic of Namibia as their vote has counted and their resolute has put yet another woman at the helm of leadership in our continent,” said Mudavadi.
Mudavadi also the Foreign & Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary noted that the shared values and aspirations between Kenya and Namibia will further flourish stating Kenya’s commitment to enhancing a close working relationship with the South African Nation to bolster mutual collaborations in various areas including but not limited to trade, agriculture and education.
“Kenya looks forward to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation with Namibia under the visionary leadership of President Nandi-Ndaitwah,” said Mudavadi.
Mudavadi emphasized the vital role women are playing in conflict prevention and post-conflict reconstruction saying the new President brings with her a vast amount of knowledge and experience that will boost Africa’s resolve to address common challenges and foster peace, security and development.
During this years’ International Women’s Day celebrations on 8th March, Mudavadi highlighted the critical intersection of gender, peace, and security, noting that women are key players in achieving societal goals, especially in conflict resolution and peace-building.
“Women must be at the forefront of peace and security processes. Their voices should be central in resolving conflicts and nurturing societies in peace,” he said.
Mudavadi who accompanied President William Ruto at the swearing in ceremony noted that time has come for Africa to stand tall and address African challenges through African processes led by African leaders.
He said the changing geo-political and global economic landscape calls for a united Africa with a dedicated leadership that will anchor the prosperity of the continent to a competitive global advantage.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah is a seasoned diplomat and politician and she has been a prominent figure in Namibia’s political landscape for decades.
Her election is not only a personal triumph but also a victory for all Namibians who have supported her vision for a united and prosperous nation.
In her inaugural address, she emphasized the importance of unity, resilience, and inclusive governance. In addition, she pledged to steer Namibia towards sustainable development, economic growth, and enhanced social welfare.
“We must work together as a united people with one heart and one mind. Our founding fathers taught us that a people united striving to achieve a common goal, for all members of the society, will always emerge, victorious,” she said.
“There is a role to play for each and every Namibian and there are enough resources to be shared among all the Namibians, I employ all Namibians irregardless of one’s background or political affiliation to join me on this journey of continuous nation building,” added President Nandi-Ndaitwah.
She succeeds the outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba who became president after the death of President Hage Geingob, under whom he had served as the second vice-president from 2018 to 2024.
As Namibia embarks on this new chapter, the global eyes are on the leadership and the anticipated transformative agenda and policies that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency promises to bring.
By Muraya Kamunde
