As the curtain falls on the first quarter of 2025, Namibia shines brightly, marking a historic milestone as the only African nation led by a trailblazing trio: a female President, Vice President, and Speaker of the National Assembly.
On March 21st, 2025, Namibia inaugurated an all-women team occupying its top leadership positions. The historic event coinciding with the nation’s 35th Independence Day celebration appointed Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwa as its first female president; Lucia Witbooi as her Vice President and subsequently, Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila as Speaker of the National Assembly, completing this groundbreaking leadership trio.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, also known as NNN, stands as a towering figure in Namibian politics and a trailblazer for women’s leadership. A veteran of the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) party, she made history as Namibia’s first female president with decades of dedication to her nation’s independence and progress.
Born October 29th, 1952 in Onamuti, South Africa, Nandi has campaigned for Namibia’s independence from South Africa as she held several leadership positions for decades.
Her illustrious career spans numerous ministerial roles, including Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs (1990–96), Minister of Women Affairs and Child Welfare (2000–05), Minister of Information and Broadcasting (2005–10), Minister of Environment and Tourism (2010–12), Minister of Foreign Affairs (2012–15), Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (2015–24), and Deputy Prime Minister (2015–24).
A champion for women’s rights, Nandi-Ndaitwah served as Director General of the Department of Women Affairs under Namibia’s first president, Sam Nujoma, from 1996 to 2000.
Her unwavering commitment to gender equality continues to inspire and pave the way for transformative change in Namibia and beyond.
Lucia Witbooi, Namibia’s fourth current Vice President and the 18th female African Vice President, carries a legacy deeply rooted in service and leadership.
A proud member of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), Witbooi was born on November 26, 1961, in the Hardap Region, where she dedicated over 27 years to shaping young minds as an educator.
Her commitment extended far beyond the classroom. She served as head of the Department at Dr. W.M. Jod Primary School in 2009, spearheaded counseling initiatives as the Gibeon Schools cluster convenor from 2003 to 2009, and played a vital role as an executive board member of the A.M.E Church W.M.S at local, area, and annual levels.
Her journey is a testament to unwavering commitment and the transformative power of education and community leadership.
Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila is a Namibian politician of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) who currently serves as the Speaker of the National Assembly. Her journey is one of groundbreaking achievements and unwavering dedication to public service.
Born on October 12, 2025, in Otamazi, Namibia, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila pursued her academic aspirations at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, USA, earning an MSc in Financial Economics and an Honorary Doctorate in Public Finance between 1991 and 1994. Her academic excellence laid the foundation for her impactful career.
She made history as Namibia’s first female Prime Minister, serving from 2015 to 2025, and has been a steadfast member of the National Assembly since 1995.
Her expertise in economics was evident during her tenure as an Economist at the Office of the President in 1995 and as Director General of the National Planning Commission from 1995 to 2003.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila’s legacy is a testament to visionary leadership and her commitment to shaping Namibia’s future.
