Since gaining independence in 1990, Namibia has navigated a complex political and economic landscape under the leadership of four presidents, each bringing unique styles and policies to the nation’s highest office.
From Sam Nujoma’s revolutionary fervour to Hage Geingob’s technocratic pragmatism, these leaders have strived to build a unified nation, foster economic growth and address social inequalities.
As Namibia approaches its crucial November 2024 elections, comparing the leadership styles, strategic choices, administrative management, governance and policy initiatives of its past presidents provides valuable insights for the incoming president.
These lessons will be pivotal in shaping Namibia’s future trajectory.
Sam Nujoma
(1990-2005)
Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president, led the nation from 1990 to 2005 with a charismatic and revolutionary zeal. His leadership was characterised by centralised decision-making, and a strong emphasis on unity and nationalism.
Nujoma’s strategic choices centred on national reconciliation and nation-building in the immediate post-independence era.
He implemented the first national development plan (NDP1), focusing on establishing essential governmental structures and institutions.
Nujoma prioritised rebuilding the nation from the ruins of apartheid, promoting a strong central government with significant executive power.
He encouraged a one-party dominant state under Swapo, aiming to foster stability and continuity.
Major policy initiatives under Nujoma included the National Reconciliation Policy, Vision 2030 (a vision to nowhere), and land reform and resettlement programmes designed to address historical injustices.
However, corruption began during his tenure.
Despite setting up several commissions of inquiries, the results were never made public.
His first cabinet helped themselves to government boreholes (we may have forgotten about this), and scandals such as the Development Brigade Cooperation and AMCOM emerged. Additionally, Nujoma banned government advertising in The Namibian newspaper, showing his aversion to openness and transparency.
Moreover, the collapse of the City Savings Bank, which styled itself as “the bank we call our own”, was a significant setback.
The Namibian government had shares amounting to 60%, highlighting the corrupt practices during his tenure.
His administration faced challenges in economic diversification and land reform.
While he laid the groundwork for a unified nation, progress in reducing inequality and accelerating land reform was slow, leaving these issues as ongoing challenges for his successors.
Hifikepunye Pohamba
(2005-2015)
Hifikepunye Pohamba, who succeeded Nujoma, brought a consultative and moderate leadership style to the presidency from 2005 to 2015.
He emphasised anti-corruption and accountability, continuing many of Nujoma’s policies, but with a greater focus on governance reforms.
Pohamba’s strategic choices included enhancing public sector efficiency, and strengthening democratic institutions.
During his tenure, he worked to foster a more inclusive and participatory governance model.
He implemented the Targeted Intervention Programme for Employment and Economic Growth, and established the Anti-Corruption Commission to combat corruption. These efforts aimed at creating a more transparent and accountable government.
He also launched the mass housing initiative to address the housing crisis, but it fell short due to poor planning and execution.
His administration also dealt with several corruption scandals, including the Social Security, Avid scandal, the GIPF and the Offshore Development scandal.
Despite these efforts, systemic corruption persisted, highlighting the challenges of fully eradicating entrenched issues within the government.
Hage Geingob
(2015-2024)
Hage Geingob, who served as president from 2015 until his death in 2024, was known for his pragmatic and technocratic approach.
His leadership emphasised economic growth, social development and inclusivity.
His administration promoted the Harambee Prosperity Plan, focusing on efficiency and performance management within the government.
His governance was marked by efforts to increase transparency, and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies.
He prioritised stakeholder engagement and dialogue, aiming to create a more open and accountable government.
Major policy initiatives included the Harambee Prosperity Plan and an economic recovery plan in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Geingob also demonstrated a strong zeal for foreign direct investment, and positioned Namibia as a potential global hub for green hydrogen production. However, this approach has been criticised for being overly-technical and top-heavy, lacking sufficient social and environmental considerations and broad-based Namibian input. Furthermore, he pursued the exploitation of newly-discovered oil and gas reserves, presenting a paradox in the context of Namibia’s transition to green energy.
His tenure was marred by various corruption scandals, including the Kora Award, SME Bank corruption and Fishrot, which underscored ongoing governance challenges.
High unemployment and poverty levels persisted, and his administration struggled with economic diversification.
Nangolo Mbumba
(2024-present)
Following Geingob’s death, Nangolo Mbumba was sworn in as president to complete Geingob’s term.
Mbumba’s leadership has been characterised by a focus on stability and continuity.
His primary role has been to ensure a smooth transition of power, and maintain governmental operations until the next elected president takes office in March 2025.
His administration has continued the policies of Geingob, with limited time to introduce significant changes or address long-term issues.
His leadership has been crucial in managing the transition period, and preparing for the upcoming elections.
However, he can be criticised for being overly symbolic, and not effecting necessary changes to foster a more progressive governance model.
Context and lessons
As Namibia approaches the November 2024 elections, lessons from past presidents provide valuable insights for future leadership:
Implementation challenges: Each president faced difficulties in translating policies into effective action. Nujoma’s centralised approach struggled with economic diversification, Pohamba’s anti-corruption efforts were hindered by persistent scandals, and Geingob’s pragmatic governance was overshadowed by corruption allegations and economic challenges.
Strengthening institutions: Pohamba’s emphasis on governance reforms highlights the importance of strong democratic institutions. The next president must prioritise transparency and accountability to rebuild public trust, and ensure effective governance.
Economic diversification: Addressing economic diversification and unemployment should be prioritised. Learning from past initiatives, the new administration must develop sustainable strategies to create jobs and diversify the economy.
Inclusive governance: Promoting inclusive governance can foster national unity and stability. Building on previous approaches, the next president should ensure all voices are heard in the decision-making process.
Adaptability in crisis: Effective crisis management, as demonstrated during the Covid-19 pandemic, will be crucial. The incoming president must be prepared to respond swiftly to future challenges.
The upcoming election presents an opportunity to build on strengths and address weaknesses, paving the way for a more prosperous and equitable Namibia. These lessons from leaders will be essential in shaping the nation’s path forward.
* Ndumba J Kamwanyah is a multidisciplinary scholar with a PhD in public policy. He studies the interplay of social welfare policy, democracy and development.