…Is the nation ready for its first female president?
Evelina Amakali
In two days, Namibians will cast their votes in an election poised to make history.
If the ruling party triumphs, the nation could swear in its first black female president, a watershed moment that would place Namibia alongside Liberia and Malawi as African nations led by women.
This milestone would signify progress in gender representation and challenge entrenched norms in Namibia’s political culture. But as the country stands on the verge of change, one question persists: Is Namibia ready for its first female head of state?
Namibia has made significant strides toward gender equality, but challenges remain deeply rooted in its colonial past. Independence in 1990 ushered in democracy and universal suffrage, yet systemic barriers—especially for Black women—persist in leadership roles. Laws such as the National Gender Policy and the Combating of Domestic Violence Act (2003) have laid a foundation for equality.
However, traditional gender roles remain entrenched, especially in rural communities where male decision-makers dominate. Young Black women, in particular, must contend with societal pressures that demand they outperform men to succeed. This cultural expectation makes equal participation in fields like politics and mining complex.
This has made one wonder if a female presidency could bring renewed focus to gendered issues like femicide, gender-based violence, and single-parent family dynamics. Will her leadership catalyse more substantial reforms, improve legislation, and expand support services for survivors?
I chatted with some of Namibia’s emerging young leaders within their space. They are all fellows with me of the Canon Collins Scholarship, a scholarship that supports social justice leadership in Southern Africa and supports them to form a strong community of SADC based leaders, thinkers and activists. They had mixed opinions on the symbolic and practical implications of a female presidency.
“For a country grappling with the scourge of gender-based violence and deeply rooted misogyny, a female president would be a powerful symbol of hope,” says Anna Liisa Shangheta, oceanographer and oceans advocate.
“It won’t solve all problems overnight, but it could give women confidence that their voices are heard at the highest levels.”
However, environmental lawyer, Rugare Pazvakavambwa, voiced scepticism about Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the female presidential candidate.
“She represents the old guard of the ruling party,” Rugare remarked.
“Those who want real change aren’t exactly happy, especially since the ruling party oversaw the crackdown on marches and protests against GBV.”
Educator and disability rights activist, Linekela Paul Nanyeni, argued for a broader perspective.
“This election is about more than gender. It’s about choosing a leader who is accountable, responsive, and inclusive. We need a president who prioritises positive change and restores Namibia as the land of the brave.”
Namibia’s youth, making up the majority of voters, could tip the scales in this election. For many, a female president would be a transformative figure, proving that leadership transcends gender and is defined by vision, inclusion, and progress. Success in this role would inspire young women to pursue leadership positions and demonstrate that diversity strengthens governance.
As the nation heads to the polls, the question is not merely whether Namibia is ready for a female president but whether it is prepared to embrace a new chapter of leadership. A female president would challenge long-held norms, offering the chance to redefine leadership and foster a more inclusive society.
This election is more than a vote—it is an opportunity to push boundaries, prioritise equity, and set a course for a more just and progressive Namibia. Namibia’s choice in the coming days will resonate far beyond its borders, shaping the nation’s future and inspiring future generations.
