Official Account - Presidency of the Republic of Namibia
Windhoek, Namibia
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Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, today departed Moscow, Russian Federation, for Namibia following fruitful participation in the Third Russia–Africa Summit.
During the Summit, President Nandi-Ndaitwah delivered a statement in which she emphasised the need to move beyond declarations of intent towards practical cooperation that delivers measurable results and improves the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
On the sidelines of the Third Russia–Africa Summit, Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, today held a bilateral meeting with His Excellency Vladimir Putin.
Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, today delivered a statement at the Third Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, Russian Federation.
In her statement, President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed her sincere gratitude to the Government and people of the Russian Federation for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to her and her delegation.
She also commended President Vladimir Putin for convening the Summit at a critical juncture in international relations.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed Russia’s longstanding friendship and solidarity with Africa, particularly during the continent’s liberation struggles against colonialism and apartheid.
She emphasised that Namibia would always remember Russia’s support during its struggle for freedom and independence, noting that this shared history should serve as a foundation for stronger political and economic cooperation.
The President noted that the Summit was taking place at a time when peace, security, national sovereignty and international cooperation were increasingly being tested by geopolitical tensions.
She stressed the need to strengthen multilateralism and advance a more representative, equitable and inclusive international order.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah welcomed Russia’s support for Africa’s position on United Nations reform, particularly the African Common Position on reforming the UN Security Council.
She also underscored the need to reform the international financial architecture to ensure that it better reflects the realities and development needs of African countries and the wider international community.
The President called for an inclusive international system that gives all nations a meaningful voice in global decision-making and reflects contemporary geopolitical and economic realities.
She emphasised that international governance must uphold sovereignty, peaceful coexistence and the right of peoples to self-determination, while advancing peace, security and sustainable development for all.
Turning to economic cooperation, President Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed that the Russia–Africa partnership should promote inclusive economic growth, productive employment and stronger people-to-people relations.
She highlighted the importance of academic and professional exchanges, joint research, innovation and human capital development, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as key drivers of industrialisation, technological advancement and economic diversification.
Citing Russia–Africa trade valued at 2.18 trillion rubles, equivalent to approximately US$27 billion in 2025, President Nandi-Ndaitwah called for stronger business-to-business relations, joint ventures, technology transfer and skills development.
She emphasised that the partnership must move beyond declarations of intent towards practical cooperation that delivers measurable results and improves the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
The President further highlighted Africa’s youthful population, agricultural potential and opportunities in energy, industry, technology and innovation as important drivers of economic transformation.
She called for greater local value addition and stronger regional value chains to accelerate industrialisation, diversify economies and advance Africa’s economic emancipation, while addressing exploitative economic relationships associated with neo-colonialism.
On climate change, President Nandi-Ndaitwah noted that Namibia, as a drought-prone country, remained particularly vulnerable to its effects.
She emphasised the need to combat desertification, land degradation and drought through the implementation of the Namib Declaration, adopted at COP11 in Windhoek in 2013. She also called for increased investment in water infrastructure to address Africa’s water security challenges and broader development needs.
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President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has arrived at the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow, Russian Federation, to participate in the First Plenary Session of the Third Russia–Africa Summit.
The Summit provides a high-level platform for strengthening relations between Russia and African countries, advancing mutually beneficial partnerships and addressing the challenges of the 21st century.
Birthday Message from the Presidency to Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency!
On this special day, the Presidency of the Republic of Namibia extends its heartfelt birthday wishes to Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia.
Some birthdays invite us not only to celebrate another year of life, but also to reflect on the journey that has brought a person to where they stand today. Your Excellency’s journey is one of service, perseverance and an enduring commitment to the country you have served for much of your life.
From your early years in the struggle for Namibia’s independence to your distinguished service in government and diplomacy, your path has been shaped by a profound chapter in our nation’s history. Today, as Namibia’s first female President, you occupy a place in that history that will be remembered for generations. Your journey is also a reminder to young Namibians, particularly girls, that the opportunities of tomorrow are shaped by the courage to pursue what once seemed beyond reach.
Yet, beyond the historic milestone, the Presidency recognises the person who carries the responsibility of this high office: a Namibian daughter, a wife, a mother and a grandmother, whose public life unfolds alongside the precious moments and relationships that give life its deeper meaning.
Your Excellency, leadership calls for difficult decisions, steady resolve and the wisdom to look beyond the challenges of the present towards the promise of tomorrow. On your birthday, we wish you not only strength for the responsibilities you carry, but also moments of peace, genuine joy and the comfort of family and loved ones.
May the year ahead bring you good health, renewed energy and wisdom for the journey before you. May you continue to find encouragement in the hopes of our people and fulfilment in the opportunity to contribute to the future of our beloved Namibia.
As you celebrate another year of life, may you be reminded that a life devoted to serving others leaves a mark that extends far beyond the years themselves.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
May God bless you abundantly, protect you in all your endeavours and grant you many more years of life, good health and fulfilment as you serve the Republic of Namibia.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah today attended the plenary session of the Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum, held on the sidelines of the Third Russia–Africa Summit.
The forum serves as a platform for dialogue, investment promotion and knowledge exchange between Russia and African countries.
Its discussions cover a broad range of areas, including trade, technology, energy, agriculture, healthcare, education and culture, as well as other fields of mutual interest.
After the session, President Nandi-Ndaitwah toured an exhibition featuring cutting-edge Russian solutions across key economic sectors.
The President will join heads of state and government, representatives of regional organizations, business leaders, experts, and academics at the Summit, which is held under the theme 'For Peace, Security and Development.'
Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, has arrived in Moscow, Russian Federation, to attend the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit, scheduled for 28–29 October 2026.
The Russia–Africa Summit will provide a platform for strengthening relations between Russia and African countries, promoting mutually beneficial partnerships and addressing shared challenges.
Watch: Departure of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for Moscow, Russian Federation, to participate in the Third Russia–Africa Summit, scheduled for 28–29 October 2026 under the theme “For Peace, Security and Development”.
Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, has departed for Moscow, Russian Federation, to participate in the Third Russia–Africa Summit.
Scheduled to take place from 28 to 29 October 2026, the high-level gathering will be convened under the theme “For Peace, Security and Development.”
The Russia–Africa Summit will provide a platform for strengthening relations between Russia and African countries, promoting mutually beneficial partnerships and addressing shared challenges.
The President is scheduled to participate in key engagements on continental strategic cooperation and attend the high-level plenary session, to be co-chaired by Russian President Vladimir Putin and the current Chairperson of the African Union, President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi.
Speaking shortly before her departure, President Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted that the summit would provide African countries with an important opportunity to collaborate with Russia in advancing their economic emancipation.
The Head of State emphasised that while political independence has been achieved across the continent, the strategic focus must now shift towards securing economic freedom.
She noted that this could be achieved through balanced global partnerships, industrial collaboration, technology transfer and robust domestic value addition.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former First Lady, Madame Penehupifo Pohamba, remembering her as a liberation struggle veteran, dedicated healthcare professional and compassionate humanitarian whose life was defined by selfless service.
Speaking at the memorial service in Windhoek today, the President recalled how Madame Pohamba answered the call for freedom by going into exile and joining Namibia’s liberation struggle.
Following further nursing and midwifery training in Tanzania and Jamaica, respectively, she cared for the sick and wounded, often under difficult conditions and amid shortages of medical supplies.
“She welcomed babies into a world still waiting for Namibia to be free,” the President said, reflecting on Madame Pohamba’s dedication as a midwife.
Her commitment to healthcare continued after independence. She devoted more than 35 years to the profession and, even while serving as First Lady, provided nursing services free of charge for three years.
“Penehupifo did not measure service by what it brought her; she measured it by what it gave to others,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised.
The President also highlighted Madame Pohamba’s humanitarian contributions, particularly her leadership in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Through OEWONA, an organisation she founded and patronised, she supported more than 10,000 widows, widowers and orphans affected by HIV and AIDS.
She also supported rural women through the Mukwamhalanga Tukondjeni Community Trust and championed the wellbeing of mothers, children, persons with disabilities and vulnerable families.
Conveying condolences to former President Hifikepunye Pohamba and the bereaved family, President Nandi-Ndaitwah assured them that the entire Namibian nation shared their grief and stood with them during this difficult time.
She urged Namibians to honour Madame Pohamba’s legacy by embracing her selflessness, compassion and moral fortitude, while extending a helping hand to those most in need.
“That is a legacy no medal can contain,” the President said, reflecting on the countless lives Madame Pohamba touched through her service.
May her legacy of love, sacrifice and service continue to inspire generations of Namibians.
Delivering remarks during the memorial service of late Penehupifo Pohamba, former First Lady, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah , said that late Penehupifo Pohamba, when the call for freedom came, she answered, by going into exile to join the liberation struggle for freedom and independence.
After receiving her nursing and midwifery training in Tanzania and Jamaica respectively she cared for the sick and the wounded, at times amid hardship and shortages of medical supplies in the camps.
Guided by Florence Nightingale’s nursing principle, the lady with a lamp, she carried out her nursing career to the highest standard of professionalism.
She emphasized that as a midwife, madam Pohamba stood beside mothers at their most vulnerable moment, making them feel proud to use their natural gift of bringing life to earth.
She welcomed babies into a world still waiting for Namibia to be free, she said.
After Namibia’s attainment of independence she continued her nursing and midwifery work, adding that even as a First Lady, she provided nursing services at no cost for three good years.
She describe her as someone who did not measure service by what it brought her; she measured it by what it gave to others. This explains why she devoted more than 35 years of her life to healthcare.
She noted that when HIV and AIDS brought pain and uncertainty to so many homes, Madam Pohamba provided health and medical service through the Organization of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS, which she led as President, she carried Namibia's voice beyond our borders.
President highlighted that through OEWONA, the organisation she founded and patronised, she supported more than 10,000 widows, widowers and orphans affected by HIV and AIDS. She also helped rural women find opportunities and dignity, through the Mukwamhalanga Tukondjeni Community Trust,
She stood with mothers and children. She stood with those living with disability and autism. She stood with families whom society too often overlooks.
Her service extended across the Maternal and Child Health National Agenda, the NAMPHARM Foundation, Lady Pohamba Hospital, Mount Sinai Centre and other initiatives. Her work received recognition at home and abroad, including honours for peace, women's leadership and public service.
Speaking to the bereaved Pohamba family she admitted knowing the magnitude of their loss pleading with them to open their hearts and mind and let her go in peace. Penehupifo is from a Christian family, and she lived that life, she emphasized.
Consoling President Pohamba and the bereaved family she said, the people of Namibia are mourning with you and praying for you, adding that the nation remember her life with them, and we give thanks with you for her life, the President offered earnest condolences from her family, herself and the entire Namibian nation.
She consoled them with comforting words of Psalm 147:3, which say, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” be a source of solace. As you face life without Penehupifo, let the words of Psalm 55:22 guide you: 'Cast your cares on the Lord, and He will sustain you.' May that promise hold you in the days ahead, when the visitors have gone home and grief is felt in the quiet moments.
She called on the nation to adopt Madam Pohamba’s selflessness and moral fortitude and extend our hands to those who need it most, especially during difficult moments, noting that these are the characteristics that define her, and these are the characteristics that should define all Namibians. May the memory of your love remain a blessing to Namibia, now and for generations to come, she concluded.
Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, has arrived at Parliament Gardens to deliver the keynote address at the State Memorial Service for the late former First Lady, Madam Penehupifo Pohamba.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to Participate in Russia–Africa Summit
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will participate in the Russia–Africa Summit, scheduled to take place from 28 to 29 October 2026 in Moscow, Russian Federation.
The President will join fellow Heads of State and Government, representatives of regional organisations, business leaders, experts and academics at the Summit, held under the theme “For Peace, Security and Development.”
Discussions will focus on strengthening economic cooperation, trade and investment, alongside priority areas such as food security, energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
The Russia–Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum will take place alongside the Summit, providing a platform for dialogue, investment and knowledge exchange. Discussions will cover trade, technology, energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, culture and other areas of mutual interest.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to participate in engagements on key areas of Russia–Africa cooperation and attend the plenary session, to be co-chaired by Russian President Vladimir Putin and the current Chairperson of the African Union, President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi.
The Summit provides a high-level platform for strengthening relations between Russia and African countries, promoting mutually beneficial partnerships and addressing shared challenges.
For Namibia, the Summit offers an opportunity to deepen bilateral relations with the Russian Federation, attract investment, expand trade, promote mineral beneficiation and advance cooperation in food security, energy, education, technology and skills development.
Namibia will seek practical partnerships that contribute to job creation, industrialisation, technology transfer and economic diversification, in line with national development priorities and the protection of the country’s economic interests.
Namibia and Russia enjoy longstanding relations founded on mutual respect and cooperation. The two countries established diplomatic relations on 21 March 1990, the day Namibia gained independence. These ties are rooted in historical solidarity, including the support extended by the former Soviet Union during Namibia’s liberation struggle.
Since independence, the two countries have continued to pursue cooperation in trade and investment, mining, energy, agriculture, education, science and technology, healthcare, tourism and defence.
The Namibia–Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation remains an important mechanism for advancing bilateral relations. Its 11th session, held in Windhoek in March 2026, explored opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, investment and development.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah is scheduled to depart Namibia on Monday, 26 October 2026, and is expected to return on Friday, 30 October 2026.
