President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is set to be honoured at a continental event in Accra, Ghana, next month, where she will receive the African Political Leader of the Year award from the African Leadership Magazine (ALM).
The award ceremony, scheduled for 27–28 February 2026, recognises Nandi-Ndaitwah’s decades-long public service, her historic rise as Namibia’s first female President, and her focus on inclusive and transformative governance.
In its announcement, ALM highlighted that Namibia has become Africa’s most gender-equal nation, closing 81.1% of its gender gap and appointing women to 57% of Cabinet positions.
The magazine described the President’s leadership as youth-focused, accountable, and inspirational for a generation where over 70% of the population is under 35 years old.
“Her historic inauguration on 21 March 2025 as Namibia’s first female president marks a major milestone. With over 30 years of public service, including roles as minister of international relations, minister of environment and tourism, deputy prime minister, and vice president, she embodies experienced and inclusive leadership,” the magazine said.
The recognition also underscores Nandi-Ndaitwah’s efforts to strengthen democratic values, enhance public institutions, and advance Africa’s shared development agenda, ALM added.
In addition, the awards recognise health and social services minister Dr Esperance Luvindao as African Public Health Champion of the Year.
The Namibian Presidency welcomed the forthcoming awards, emphasising that the recognition reflects both national achievement and continental respect.
“The Presidency warmly welcomes the honour conferred on President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as African Political Leader of the Year. This continental honour underscores the broad respect for President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s steady, principled leadership, her lifelong commitment to public service, and her dedication to good governance, peace, and inclusive development,” said presidential spokesperson Jonas Mbambo.
The Presidency also highlighted the collective achievements of the country’s leadership, including the recognition of Health Minister Dr Luvindao as African Public Health Champion of the Year.
“Special congratulations go to Luvindao… an accolade that highlights Namibia’s growing leadership in public health and the calibre of excellence within Cabinet,” the statement said.
In the statement, Mbambo said the award represents not only personal recognition for the President but also a celebration of the country’s achievements in gender equality, youth empowerment and governance.
“Heartfelt thanks [are extended] to all Namibians, at home and abroad, and to friends of Namibia who participated in the public voting process and who continue to support the President’s vision for a united, prosperous, and forward-looking Namibian nation,” Mbambo said.
The ALM awards ceremony will bring together Africa’s leading political and public figures, offering networking opportunities, policy discussions, and recognition of leaders whose work is shaping the continent’s future.
-ljason@nepc.com.na
