Namibia has achieved historical significance. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is the first female president and president of the SWAPO party.
This marks a historic moment that resonates well beyond our borders.
Her election is a powerful statement on development, gender equality and Namibian democracy.
However, it is essential to temper expectations with realism, in unison with the 35th anniversary of the young country’s independence, during his oath as the fifth president of the Republic of Namibia on March 21, 2025. No changes occur suddenly. Especially the kind that changes the country.
Namibia’s success under Nandi Nudaitwa’s leadership requires a change of thinking, collective effort and enduring perseverance from all.
Break barriers and build hope
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is a victory for women and young girls who have undeniable evidence that leadership is not in the realm of men.
Her election is in line with a global and regional commitment to gender equality, including South Africa’s development, community protocols on gender and development, and a platform for Beijing Declaration and Action.
It also means broader acceptance that women can and must assume a rightful place at the highest level of government.
Her leadership carries quite a symbolic weight, but it’s more than just an expression.
Her extensive experiences in government, diplomacy and economic issues drive Namibia to foster prosperity.
She pledged to act on economic reform, job creation and social equity – an ambitious yet essential goal in the country addressing economic uncertainty, unemployment and systemic inequality.
The weight of expectations
Historic presidency brings historical expectations.
Many Namibians hope that her leadership will improve daily life quickly.
But we must be honest with ourselves – leaders, no matter how competent they are, cannot erase decades of structural challenges alone within five years.
We must resist the urge to view Nandi Nudaitwa as a political wizard.
Namibia’s economic struggle, youth unemployment crisis, land issues and medical deficits will not go away in one night.
Authentic growth requires time, consistent policy implementation, and commitment to long-term development for short-term political benefits.
Shift in thinking
Namibia’s progress is not just the responsibility of the president and the cabinet.
For real progress, all Namibians – government officials, corporate leaders, civil society members, ordinary citizens – must be responsible for the growth of our country.
It is essential to reassess the way you approach work, governance and civic engagement.
As we enter this new era, we must cultivate a love for each other and our country.
This means holding leaders accountable while pledging to carry out our role by supporting local businesses, actively participating in community projects, or promoting ethical leadership in their respective fields.
The president can set a vision, but it takes a nation to make it happen.
Governance in a new era
Her leadership is valued not only by her policy decisions but also by her governance style. Namibia needs to adopt a leadership approach that promotes transparency, inclusiveness and practical decision-making.
Political allies and rivals must recognize that progress is a shared goal – not a partisan goal.
Her expectations for the administration are high.
Disappointment occurs along the way.
However, leadership should be evaluated based on tangible outcomes rather than immediate satisfaction.
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Namibian challenges do not appear overnight and are not resolved overnight.
What matters is our commitment to a path of continuous and sustainable development.
What does this moment demand from us?
The message to all Namibians is clear in the face of this historic intersection. Let’s be part of the solution.
Change does not start with the presidency.
It starts in our homes, our workplaces, our communities. Collaborate to create Namibia that is not only promised for development, but also achieved through a shared vision for resilience, patience and a bright future.
Most importantly, remember that Nandi Ndaitwa is not a magician, but a visionary leader. As we seize this opportunity as a nation, her administration could lead a new era, not just for Namibia but for everything in Africa.
*Dr. Michael Conte is a gender expert and a public scholar. He can be contacted at linsobob@gmail.com
