As a nation, we must celebrate our achievements with the same fervour, whether big or small. 

National pride should resonate not only in moments of struggle, but also in the victories we achieve, both gigantic and minuscule. 

Tomorrow marks a historic moment for Namibia and for the Southern African Development Community (SADC). We will witness the inauguration of the country’s first female president in Netumbo Ndemupelila Nandi-Ndaitwah. The name “Ndemupelila” translates loosely to “the one who showed the way” in Oshikwanyama, perhaps reflecting the profound wisdom embedded in this African name. It is a fitting descriptor for our president-elect, who is poised to usher Namibia into a new era. This accomplishment speaks volumes about Namibia’s unwavering commitment to democracy, progressive leadership and gender equality. Globally, women remain under-represented in political leadership, with only 26.5% of the world’s parliamentarians being women. 

It is projected that global gender parity in parliaments will take another 150 years to achieve. However, Namibia has defied this trend, making significant strides towards gender equality in under 35 years. 

Her victory is a testament to the possibility for women to assume the highest offices in their countries – a trailblazing achievement for women in politics, who have always been pushed to the periphery, faraway from the decision-making table, even at the household level. While significant progress has been made, global gender parity in political bodies remains an elusive goal. Women continue to face a range of challenges in politics, from gender-based violence (GBV) to entrenched gender stereotypes that limit their access to leadership positions. GBV, in particular, remains a major barrier to women’s participation in political life, with female politicians and journalists often subjected to harassment, threats and online abuse. 

Despite these challenges, Namibia has made remarkable strides. With women now holding 51% of seats in Parliament, the country stands as a beacon of gender equality in the region and beyond. This is no small achievement, and it is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Namibian people. Namibians can and should be proud of how far we’ve come – and of the bright future that lies ahead. 

Affectionately known as NNN, Nandi- Ndaitwah won the recent presidential election with 57% of the vote. A seasoned disciplinarian, lawmaker and diplomat, she has long been an advocate for inclusivity, gender equality, youth empowerment and sustainable energy. 

It would be disingenuous to discuss this breakthrough without acknowledging the role the Swapo Party has played in shaping a political system which promoted and delivered Namibia’s first female president. 

History records that Swapo’s push for gender equality and women’s representation dates back to the 60s. Already in 1969 during a consultative congress in December in Tanga, Tanzania, the campaign for gender equality was prioritised. This was evidenced by the fact that two women, former Deputy Prime Minister Dr Libertina Amadhila and Putuse Appolus were among the 28 delegates in attendance, and resolved that the Swapo Party Women’s Council be established, much to the credit of Founding President Sam Nujoma. 

The adoption of the “zebra style” system, where men and women alternated in leadership positions, ensured that women were not only present in decision-making structures, but were also groomed for executive roles. 

This policy, introduced in 2013, has reshaped the composition of Namibia’s Parliament, making it one of the most gender-balanced legislatures in Africa 

Over the years, Namibia has built a foundation that made this moment unavoidable. The country has had female vice presidents, prime ministers, ministers and key party leaders such as the vice president of Swapo and its secretary general. Women have long been at the decision-making table, influencing policies which drive national development. 

Today, that progress will culminate in the swearing-in of a female president, affirming that Namibia is not just keeping pace with global gender equality movements, but setting an example for Africa and the world. 

This moment is bigger than one individual; it is a victory for every young girl who dares to dream beyond societal expectations. 

It is a moment which reinforces the idea that leadership is not bound by gender but by vision, dedication and the ability to serve. 

As we prepare to inaugurate our first elected female president, the nation should stand proud, knowing that it is leading SADC into a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration, but a reality.