Namibia’s newly elected President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged to boost investment in agriculture and diversify the country’s resource-based economy to combat high unemployment. Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, made history by becoming Namibia’s first female president after her SWAPO party secured victory in the November elections.
Despite Namibia’s recent economic growth, largely driven by investments in oil, gas, and green hydrogen, the nation continues to struggle with one of the highest income inequality rates globally, according to World Bank data. In her inaugural address, President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the need for increased investment in agriculture to enhance domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports.
“We are going to increase investments in the agriculture sector to increase output and meet domestic food requirements,” she declared, underscoring her administration’s focus on food security.
Additionally, she highlighted the importance of economic diversification to ensure Namibians benefit more from the country’s natural resources through value addition. Her plan includes expanding industries beyond raw material exports, a move she believes will create much-needed employment opportunities, particularly for the nation’s youth.
“Diversification will create jobs to take care of the unemployed, of which the majority are the youth,” she stated.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also reaffirmed her commitment to ethical governance, calling for high standards among public servants and promising to intensify the fight against corruption. These remarks come at a time when SWAPO’s popularity has declined, with voter support dropping from 87% in 2014 to 57% in the 2023 presidential race, amid growing public dissatisfaction over unemployment, inequality, and corruption allegations.
The new president was sworn in during a ceremony attended by dignitaries, including seven incumbent and nine former African presidents.
Her leadership faces immediate challenges, including addressing economic disparities and restoring public trust in SWAPO. Meanwhile, opposition parties have contested the election results, citing voting irregularities, but their case was dismissed by Namibia’s Supreme Court last month.
As President Nandi-Ndaitwah embarks on her tenure, her policies and reforms will be closely watched as she seeks to steer Namibia toward greater economic stability and inclusivity.
