Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has praised President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, for becoming the country’s first female head of state.
Hassan said Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership marks a milestone for women in Africa.
Speaking at the inauguration and Namibia’s 35th Independence celebrations at State House on 21 March, Hassan highlighted the significance of the moment for gender equality.
“Your resounding victory is a moment of pride for the continent, but more so for the people of Tanzania, your home during the most formative years. We are happy to see the daughter we nurtured and raised with love and compassion now rise to the highest office on this land,” Hassan said.
Hassan became Tanzania’s first female president, following the death of John Magufuli in March 2021.
She also emphasised the importance of empowering young women.
“My heartfelt congratulations to you once again for making history but also for setting the bar high for Africa and the Namibian girl child,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s fifth president following her victory in the November 2024 elections.
Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema, who attended the inauguration event, congratulated Nandi-Ndaitwah on her election and the people of Namibia for conducting peaceful elections.
“Our appreciation also goes to former President His Excellency Dr. Nangolo Mbumba for ensuring a seamless transition, despite the recent loss of a sitting president and the founding president. Today’s inauguration coincides with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, a remarkable milestone that showcases the country’s progress and resilience,” he said.
Botswana’s president, Duma Boko, said the inauguration of Nandi-Ndaitwah is a historic moment for Namibia and the region.
“….marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership, progress, and regional cooperation. Botswana remains committed to strengthening our diplomatic ties and working together for mutual growth and development,” he said.
The secretary general of the African National Congress, Fikile Mbalula, who led his party’s delegation in attending the inauguration ceremony of Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed his party’s commitment to strengthening ties with SWAPO and the Namibian government.
“Together, we will continue to champion regional integration, peace, and economic prosperity across Southern Africa.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by regional leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Angolan President João Lourenço, former presidents of the African nations, as well as representatives from the African Union and the United Nations.
