Media platforms were filled with birthday wishes for President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who was born on 29 October 1952. Organisations and individuals composed eye-catching and heartfelt messages celebrating the grace of God upon His favourite child, Nandi-Ndaitwah. Each organisation’s message emphasised its positive impression related to its mission and vision, aligned with the current administration. The request for more service fulfilment linked to core responsibilities, with careful attention to proper English grammar. 

It is evident that designers used their creative styles to make the outlook presentable, as this is the first birthday celebration of Meme President since she took office. There was a need to make a long-lasting positive impact. Targeted recipients of messages are expected not only to read the good wishes, but to know the existence of the good-wishers. 

It is not just good wishes on the day the President was born, but also an expression of how people feel about the her and her strategic administration.  Part of the activities on the day included celebrating the birthday with children at the Katutura Independence Arena.  Ideas, thoughts and expressions on the leadership of Nandi-Ndaitwah from various organisations and individual persons are noteworthy. Due to the volume of sources and multiplication of thoughts, words and ideas, referencing is omitted in this piece.

A true reflection is that every interaction you make with any person creates an impression. Subsequently, the same was shown by well-wishers to Nandi-Ndaitwah by way of using different terms or names to show appreciation, namely: first female President of the Namibian nation, woman of God for the nation of Namibia, mother of the Namibian nation, Mukwanangobe, comrade, an extraordinary leader, daughter of the soil, a lady of substance, patriot, valuable leader, mother of Africa, mum, our star and many others. These symbols reflect whom our President is. The celebration emphasised capturing moments, with people sharing their favourite pictures on social media and photographers showcasing their skills, often for attention. This shows that when talents are used well, prosperity follows Wishers conveyed assessments of the President’s works and sent messages of expectations. They pledged support to the call of action. 

The pragmatic leadership was shown through the following statements: “President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s Presidency marked the start of a new chapter in Namibia’s political narrative, one that seeks to balance continuity with change, tradition with innovation, and diplomacy with decisive governance”. While an employee at one ministry wrote:

“… whether you are a cleaner, receptionist, etc., you are part of a large purpose, without you, this ministry cannot function”. 

A proud young Namibian proudly texted that: “I have never been so proud of my government as I am today. Your leadership has brought hope, unity and strength to the Namibian nation”. She is a hope restorer as stated here: “Thank you for restoring faith in our future and reminding us what true service to the people looks like”. 

Certainly, we celebrate Her Excellency’s life and her unwavering commitment to the people of Namibia. Continuity and dedication are expressed as: “President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s belief in democracy, peace and service continues to shape Namibia’s story. Today, we celebrate her leadership and the purpose that guides it”.  The second anchor of Madam President’s leadership is acknowledged as: “Your commitment to poverty alleviation and expanding access to social protection resonates deeply with our mission to promote social justice and protect Namibians against life’s uncertainties”. “Your vision and dedication inspire progress and unity across Namibia, energising our people and guiding our country towards lasting growth and prosperity.” The focus areas observed to be at the core, such as economic reforms and investor confidence, social priorities, including housing, health reform and human dignity, public-private partnerships, youth empowerment, infrastructure renewal, agriculture and international relations/foreign policy. The President demonstrated high integrity, vital for good governance and country development, building citizens’ trust through honesty and transparency. 

He consistently prioritises public welfare over personal gain, promoting accountability and fairness. Proposals or expectations are brought forth such as: “May God guides your decisions, may your sunshine be radiated with happiness and peace – God save you…”  Accountability, meritocracy and inclusivity are part of anchors of Her Excellency’s leadership – principles that were reflected in prayers: “May almighty God bless you with health, energetic, great protection and many more years to come so that you can alleviate our country from poverty, corruption, discrimination and make it greater for all of us”. Knowing very well about the need to balance, the suggestion is: “continue to be a good mother and also a great leader”. From Tate Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah to the wife is: “…Netumbo must understand the responsibility given to her by the Namibian people. It is not something to celebrate and forget”. The statement: “your authentic care and passionate commitment to the country and its people lights the path forward to advance our nation’s prosperity” talks about the fact that truth in all our dealings shall set us free – it begs for discipline by all at all times. It concludes with a prayer for God’s grace to bless Madam President as she leads with vision and seeks health, clarity and strength.  The message shows the power of words, which can influence and build or destroy.  For the President’s birthday, words comfort, encourage, give hope and build faith among Namibians.

*Fransina Ndateelela Kahungu is the secretary of the Swapo Party Women’s Council.