Namibia’s newly elected President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged to diversify the country’s economy, boost investments in agriculture, and tackle high unemployment rates. The 72-year-old president aims to create jobs for the majority of unemployed youth and increase output to meet domestic food requirements.
Nambi-Ndaitwah, who became Namibia’s first female president after her SWAPO party secured victory in both elections, has committed to diversifying the economy through value addition, enabling citizens to derive maximum benefits from the country’s natural resources.
The move comes as Namibia faces significant income inequality, ranking second highest globally. Despite relatively strong economic growth driven by oil, gas, and green hydrogen investments, the country struggles with high unemployment rates.
Nambi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration was attended by several African presidents, including seven incumbent and nine former leaders. The new president has vowed to maintain high ethical standards among public servants and combat corruption, following a decline in SWAPO’s public support over the last decade due to dissatisfaction with unemployment, inequality, and graft allegations.
A recent challenge against the presidential election brought by opposition parties was dismissed by Namibia’s Supreme Court, which found the vote to be valid despite concerns about voting irregularities. Nambi-Ndaitwah’s presidency marks a new chapter for Namibia as it seeks to address its economic challenges and create opportunities for its citizens.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/namibias-new-president-vows-diversify-economy-tackle-joblessness-2025-03-21