Youth reflects on Nandi-Ndaitwah’s administration

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah recently marked her first 100 days in office after becoming Namibia’s first female president. The first 100 days are typically seen as a key indicator of the direction and priorities of a new leader. With high hopes resting on her shoulders by the youth, especially in terms of jobs and education, the question now is has she delivered?

Amakali Hilma (26)

“Hearing and seeing how our newly elected president has been doing so far in her office, she has done an excellent job, not just in her office but to the Namibian nation as a whole. She made women believe in themselves and shows anyone could be a leader regardless of their gender. She encourages women empowerment and she has been a powerful gender-based violence advocate, before the Okahandja incidents recently. I think this will be a great term for her and I think we are going to be a better Namibia by 2030.”

Dinelago Mutota (22)

“As a public management scholar, the first 100 days are about setting the institutional tone and policy direction. The president has emphasised unity and international engagement, which is commendable. However, I’m still hoping to see clearer commitments to public sector reform, performance management, and stronger accountability systems. It’s too soon to assess impact, but how her administration strengthens institutions and improves service delivery will ultimately define the legacy of this historic presidency.”

David Hambia (24)

“My expectations were not fully realised but policy reforms such as free education, the realisation of how important the creative industry is, the new visa regulations, as well as condemning aggression with the present wars and resisting western imperialism, are a good start. I have a genuine belief in her leadership and wish her well in the best interests of our nation.”

Pinkie Guriras (22)

“Admiring as I am of visionary strategic guidance and forward-looking policies demonstrated in president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, I must particularly commend her administration’s swift action to initiate free tertiary education. This life-changing initiative will significantly boost Namibia’s human development foundation, driving innovation and sustainable economic development. As an elderly politician used to remark, ‘The first hundred days often serve as a compass for an administration’s direction, setting the tone for its enduring legacy’. President Nandi-Ndaitwah has indeed charted an exemplary course.”

Shonena Nathanael (21)

“I’m welcoming president Nandi-Ndaitwah’s offer of free higher education because it would mean opportunities for the youth. But I’m still in doubt and hope that it is not just political campaign rhetoric. We should focus on ensuring the entire education system is well-funded, because it’s underfunded. My concern is how the government will come up with the needed funds without sacrificing other vital areas. Long-term funding is necessary for meaningful progress and I hope the government’s initiatives are realistic and comprehensive in addressing the total needs of our education system and economy.”

Ricky Martin /Howoseb (24)

“President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah made bold moves – reshaping Cabinet, prioritising oil and gas, and introducing free tertiary education to drive human capital. Her visa policy increased tourism revenue, bearing witness to diplomatic dividends from resumed efforts. Yet, youth joblessness remains an urgent matter. Focused action on skills at the grassroots level, financing for micro, small and medium enterprises, and aligning qualifications to meet the needs of the labour market could build inclusive growth under what might be a truly transformational presidency.”

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