As the first female President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah celebrates her 73rd birthday today, four  young political leaders who have worked closely with her have shared heartfelt tributes, celebrating her as a teacher, trailblazer and a moral compass for the nation.

Their voices, united across regions, echo a deep sense of admiration for a woman whose leadership journey continues to inspire new generations.

Across all four messages, a shared sentiment shines through – one of gratitude for a leader, whose life and leadership continue to guide Namibia’s moral and political compass.

From Parliament to regional councils, young leaders see in President Nandi-Ndaitwah not only as a political figure but a national mentor – a woman who embodies endurance, unity and service.

Fenny Tutjavi 

Member of Parliament Fenny Tutjavi described the President as “a leader who continues to inspire generations of Namibians and across the globe”.

“To many young girls, she embodies possibility, the breaking of barriers once thought unbreakable,” she said.

The young politician continued: “To many young boys, she stands as an example of humility in leadership, strength grounded in wisdom and service rooted in compassion”.

She added that President Nandi-Ndaitwah “leads with conviction and listens with empathy, a rare balance that reminds us that true power is found in service to others”.

For Tutjavi and her peers, the President’s life is not merely a political journey, but “a timeless lesson in courage, discipline and integrity”.

Immanuel Shikongo

From the north-western part of the country, Omusati Governor  Immanuel Shikongo called the President “a trailblazer, whose leadership continues to shape Namibia’s destiny with wisdom, compassion and unwavering integrity”.

“Her Excellency stands as a symbol of resilience, truth and visionary leadership,” he said, adding that her presidency marks “a new era of inclusive governance and transformative leadership”.

Shikongo praised the President’s “socialist approach”, which he said “calls on society to live with integrity, dignity, accountability and humanity”.

“A champion of youth and women, a seasoned diplomat and a servant leader who acts not for personal gain but for national progress, Nandi-Ndaitwah is a beacon of hope,” he declared.

“Omusati region and Namibia at large celebrate you. The world honours you, Your Excellency,” he remarked.

Fillemon Immanuel

For justice minister Fillemon Wise Immanuel, today is not just a birthday celebration.

It is a reminder on how transformative leadership style has come to define Namibia’s new era.

“Your Excellency, your people-centred leadership has redefined what it means to serve,” he said.

“You remind us that true leadership transcends time, politics and generations,” he added.

Immanuel described Nandi-Ndaitwah as “a visionary, whose leadership is rooted in compassion, conviction and unity,” adding that she “leads not by distance but by presence, not through command but through connection”.

“Under her leadership, Namibia walks a path of hope and shared prosperity, creating a society where every citizen is seen, valued and empowered,” Immanuel added.

Hofni Ipinge

Oshana Governor Hofni Ipinge reflected on the President’s long journey from her birth in Namutayi on 29 October 1952 to becoming the country’s first female Head of State on 21 

March 2025.

“She is a woman of her word, who stands to improve the well-being of all Namibians. She keeps on saying Namibians are too few to be poor, and that corruption is treason,” he said.

Ipinge praised Nandi-Ndaitwah for promoting “a culture of honesty, transparency and fairness”, and for her belief that “accountability to one another is at the heart of nationhood”.

“She believes in One Namibia, One Nation, irrespective of religious conviction, political persuasion or social standing,” he said. 

He added that “Her leadership is passionate, caring and action-oriented”.