President William Ruto has sent his congratulatory message to newly elected Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
In a statement on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Ruto hailed Nandi for being elected as the first female president of Namibia and the fourth in Africa.
“Congratulations Your Excellency Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on your election as the fifth President of the Republic of Namibia,” Ruto stated.
“Your election as Namibia’s first woman President – and the fourth ever elected woman President in Africa – is a powerful reminder to the people of our continent that there is no limit to what they can achieve in politics.”
In his message, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said Nandi’s presidency underscores women’s role in shaping the continent’s future.
“On behalf of the Kenyan Parliament, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to H.E President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on her election and also as the first female President of Namibia. As Namibia embarks on this new chapter, may your leadership inspire hope, drive development, and set a transformative vision for generations to come,” Wetangula stated.
“Your presidency underscores the role of women in shaping the future of our continent. As Ellen Johnson Sirleaf once said, “If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” May your leadership inspire women and girls across Africa to dream boldly and pursue their goals with courage and determination. May your tenure be a beacon of hope and progress for the Namibian people. Together, let us build an Africa that thrives in unity and purpose.”
Nandi, from the governing South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo), was voted in as Namibia’s first female president after last week’s disputed election.
The electoral commission said she had won more than 57 per cent of vote, with her closest rival Panduleni Itula, getting 26 per cent.
Itula’s Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) party said it would challenge the results in court.
Despite being elected through a disputed poll, Nandi praised the people of Namibia for voting for “peace and stability”.
“The Namibian nation has voted for peace and stability,” she stated.
