Three cheers for Namibia’s first female president

MONROVIA – As Africa’s first democratically elected female president, I am more familiar than most people with the significance of breaking the glass ceiling. For decades, the highest political offices in Africa have been the preserve of men. But now Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has done it again, becoming the first woman to lead Namibia after winning November’s presidential election.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election represents a significant shift on the continent: there is a growing understanding that women are just as capable of leading governments as men are. Her victory is more than an important milestone for Namibia; it has offered a renewed sense of pride and possibility for Africa.

When I took office in 2006, I was in uncharted territory. The idea of a female African head of state felt groundbreaking, almost inconceivable to many. In the intervening years, women have stepped into many prominent roles across the continent, reshaping perceptions of what leadership can and should look like. But Nandi-Ndaitwah’s successful bid for the presidency reaffirms that the barriers faced by women leaders on the continent are not insurmountable.

A woman assuming a country’s highest office transforms the aspirations of countless girls and young women. For years, women across Africa have been told – sometimes subtly, other times bluntly – that politics is a realm reserved for men. But seeing women like Nandi-Ndaitwah ascend to power challenges these entrenched stereotypes.

Her success also underscores the inherent value of having women in decision-making roles. In my experience, female leaders tend to focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and resilience – qualities that are essential for building stronger, more equitable societies. Moreover, a democracy flourishes when its leadership reflects the diversity of its people. Electing women is not about tokenism; it is about unlocking potential and driving meaningful change.

While Namibia celebrates, the significance of this outcome ripples across the continent. It signals that African citizens are ready to embrace women as leaders. Far from an isolated event, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s win is part of a broader movement to empower African women and elevate them to positions of influence in politics, business, and civil society. Her journey shows that progress is possible when institutions and communities commit to inclusion.

Despite this, we must not ignore the persistent challenges that women aspiring to leadership roles face. Systemic discrimination, societal biases, and unequal access to resources remain formidable obstacles. Entering politics is still seen as a privilege rather than a right. To change that perception, African governments should enact policies that promote equal representation, including electoral reforms and initiatives to combat gender bias. Societies must root out the harmful norms that discourage women from pursuing elected office, while men must recognize that gender equality benefits everyone.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency is not just an accomplishment to celebrate; it is a call to action. It reminds us that progress requires persistence. Supporting women leaders must remain a high priority, from grassroots activism to national policies. Other African countries should follow Namibia’s example, creating political environments where women can thrive and compete on an equal footing. Leadership pathways must be accessible to all who want to serve.

For women already striving to lead, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s victory is a source of renewed hope. The fight for gender parity is yielding results. Most importantly, this will inspire the next generation of girls. Seeing a female African president demonstrates that their ambitions are valid and attainable. They, too, can aim for the highest office without apology or hesitation.

This is a defining moment for Africa. The continent, it seems, is increasingly ready to embrace the full potential of its people. Let Namibia’s first female president cement our collective resolve to fight for gender equality, embolden women to pursue leadership positions, and energize efforts to build a more inclusive political landscape. Progress may take time, but a future where women are just as likely as men to win elections is within our grasp.

Namibia has opened a new chapter for women’s leadership in Africa. The rest of the continent must keep turning the pages.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former president of Liberia, is Founder of the EJS Presidential Centre for Women and Development and co-chair of the Independent Panel on Pandemic Preparedness and Response.