Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah took her oath as Namibia's new President at State House yesterday, making history as the country's first female leader. The ceremony happened during Namibia's 35th independence celebrations, with many important guests watching. President Mnangagwa, who heads the SADC, joined the event alongside Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who served as Guest of Honor. Other African leaders came to witness this milestone, including South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa, DRC's Félix Tshisekedi, and Zambia's Hakainde Hichilema.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah arrived at State House, where former President Nangolo Mbumba welcomed her to begin the ceremony. The 72-year-old leader, who captured 58 percent of votes during last November's election, took her official oath before listening to speeches from visiting officials, including President Hassan. Following the vibrant celebration, President Mnangagwa spoke about regional cooperation and solidarity. He emphasized how countries must back each other, share different viewpoints, and stay united for the entire region to develop and progress forward.
President Mnangagwa's presence as SADC chairperson underscored how meaningful this transition proved for both Namibia and neighboring countries. During her first speech as president, the SWAPO party leader Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed unity and advancement as central themes for the nation. She recognized the historical importance of becoming the first woman to lead Namibia and promised to create a fairer society where everyone felt included.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah firmly stated her administration would stand against corruption throughout her time in office. She mentioned learning from former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere and considers corruption equal to treason. She warned that corrupt leadership angers citizens enough to remove officials from power, announcing clear changes from previous practices. She expressed her deep care for the people, acknowledging they might dislike her strong stance but affirming her commitment to beneficial policies rather than continuing past approaches.
Television and radio stations aired the entire ceremony live, letting people throughout Namibia join in celebrating this important day. Business leaders and institutional representatives attended the event and voiced their backing for President Nandi-Ndaitwah and her plans for the country. President Mnangagwa traveled back home yesterday evening after the celebrations. Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga greeted him at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport along with Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, military commanders, and additional high-ranking government personnel.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah arrived at State House, where former President Nangolo Mbumba welcomed her to begin the ceremony. The 72-year-old leader, who captured 58 percent of votes during last November's election, took her official oath before listening to speeches from visiting officials, including President Hassan. Following the vibrant celebration, President Mnangagwa spoke about regional cooperation and solidarity. He emphasized how countries must back each other, share different viewpoints, and stay united for the entire region to develop and progress forward.
President Mnangagwa's presence as SADC chairperson underscored how meaningful this transition proved for both Namibia and neighboring countries. During her first speech as president, the SWAPO party leader Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed unity and advancement as central themes for the nation. She recognized the historical importance of becoming the first woman to lead Namibia and promised to create a fairer society where everyone felt included.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah firmly stated her administration would stand against corruption throughout her time in office. She mentioned learning from former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere and considers corruption equal to treason. She warned that corrupt leadership angers citizens enough to remove officials from power, announcing clear changes from previous practices. She expressed her deep care for the people, acknowledging they might dislike her strong stance but affirming her commitment to beneficial policies rather than continuing past approaches.
Television and radio stations aired the entire ceremony live, letting people throughout Namibia join in celebrating this important day. Business leaders and institutional representatives attended the event and voiced their backing for President Nandi-Ndaitwah and her plans for the country. President Mnangagwa traveled back home yesterday evening after the celebrations. Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga greeted him at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport along with Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, military commanders, and additional high-ranking government personnel.
