From the Struggle to the Statehouse: Namibia’s first female President Nandi-Ndaitwah inspires UDSM with bold leadership message
By Zamda George, CMU
History was made at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) as Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, delivered an insightful and deeply personal lecture titled “Inspiring Women to Break Barriers in Leadership Positions: A Personal Experience”.
Held at the University’s Library Auditorium on 21st May, 2025, the event attracted a captivated audience of over 600 attendees, including students, academics, government officials, diplomats, and civil society leaders, all eager to hear the trailblazing leader’s story of perseverance, purpose, and power.
With eloquence and humility, President Nandi-Ndaitwah shared her journey from a young girl growing up in rural Namibia to becoming her country’s first female Head of State. Her lecture artfully blended autobiography with a rousing call to action, emphasising the power of African women and the urgent need for gender-inclusive leadership.
“Leadership is not defined by titles. It is defined by purpose, perseverance, and the refusal to accept ceilings imposed by others,” she declared.
She added: “I am not just standing here as a president — I am standing here as a daughter of Africa, shaped by adversity, strengthened by sisterhood, and driven by justice.”
In a message that resonated strongly with young women in the audience, she urged African institutions to be deliberate in nurturing female leadership and in challenging patriarchal norms that hinder progress.
“We must confront cultures that silence women before they speak and dismantle systems that question their competence before they begin. Empowering a woman to lead is not a favour, it is a necessity for Africa’s progress”, said President Nandi-Ndaitwah.
A powerful example for generations
Chancellor of UDSM and former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, lauded President Nandi-Ndaitwah as a pioneer and an inspiration to women across the continent.
“What we witnessed today is more than a lecture, it is a legacy. Her Excellency has shown us that courage, when guided by principle, can move mountains, and women, when supported, can move nations”, he said.
The Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Adolf Mkenda, applauded the longstanding diplomatic and educational ties between Tanzania and Namibia, rooted in shared liberation struggles and a common vision for a united, progressive Africa.
“Her story reminds us that Africa’s future depends on empowering women and investing in leadership grounded in purpose and lived experience,” Prof. Mkenda said.
He added: “Institutions like UDSM must remain at the forefront — not only of academic excellence — but of producing visionary changemakers”.
A beacon of Pan-African excellence
UDSM Vice Chancellor Prof. William Anangisye warmly welcomed President Nandi-Ndaitwah back to the University, recalling her 2020 honorary doctorate in Political Leadership and Gender Equality.
“Her Excellency is a beacon of Pan-African excellence. Her life story embodies the values we seek to instill in our students: resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to Africa’s transformation”, said Prof. Anangisye.
Prof. Bernadeta Killian, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Planning, Finance and Administration, and a respected political science scholar who moderated the event, praised President Nandi-Ndaitwah as a bold and principled leader.
“Her message today was not only timely, it was a powerful call to action for Africa’s next generation. Her leadership reflects the very best of Pan-African ideals: unity, integrity, and inclusive governance”, said Prof. Killian.
As the event drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of inspiration across the auditorium. For many, the lecture was more than an address, it was a moment of transformation. President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presence, words, and example left an indelible mark on Tanzania’s most iconic university.