On February 4, 2024, Namibia was plunged into shock and mourning at the sudden passing of former President Hage Geingob.
Despite the initial confusion, the constitution’s protocols ensured the continuity of governance.
Former Vice President Nangolo Mbumba has stepped into the role of Namibia’s fourth president, officially sworn in by Chief Justice Peter Shivute on the same day. For further details on this development, read the article “What’s next for Namibia?’’.
This article uncovers more of President Mbumba and reveals the layers of his character that have long been enveloped.
Swearing-in
Through the Namibian Constitution, Article 34 states, (1) If the office of President becomes vacant or if the President is otherwise unable to fulfil the duties of the office, the following persons shall, in the order provided for in this Sub-Article Act, serve as President for the unexpired portion of the President’s term of office or until the President is able to resume office, whichever is earlier: (a) the Vice President.
Nangolo Mbumba’s assumption of the presidency marks a historic moment in Namibia’s history as he is the first leader to ascend to the position without being elected, instead following constitutional provisions due to the unprecedented passing of a serving president.
Education
Born on August 15, 1941, in Olukonda, Oshikoto Region, South West Africa (now Namibia), Mbumba’s journey took him from the plains of Africa to the halls of academia.
He earned his qualification from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Connecticut, USA, in 1971, before venturing further into the realm of knowledge to secure an MSc in Biology from the University of Connecticut in the USA in 1973. Upon graduation, President Mbumba started his teaching career at Harlem Preparatory School in New York City.
After departing New York City, he came back to Africa, assuming the role of head of the science department at the Namibia Education Centre in Cuanza Sul, Angola. By 1980, he had achieved his long-held dream of becoming the principal of the centre.
President Nangolo Mbumba’s wildest dream growing up in a small town in Northern Namibia was to plough back into his community and invest in academic success by becoming a school principal, a role he perceived as the ultimate pinnacle of achievement.
“My aim was to be a school principal, which I achieved, and now I have to thank the Namibian people for the honour they have bestowed on me to be their president for a short period.”
President Nangolo Mbumba at his swearing-in ceremony.
Political career
Mbumba’s political journey began in 1987, when he became the secretary to SWAPO’s then-president, the founding father of the Namibian nation, Sam Nujoma. Following independence, President Mbumba has served in the National Assembly of Namibia and in government ministries including Agriculture, Water, and Rural Development (1993–1996), Finance (1996–2003), Information and Broadcasting (2003–2005), Education (2005–2010), and Safety and Security (2010–2012).
In 2018, Mbumba got a surprising twist of fate when he was advanced into the world of the presidency, stepping into the role of Vice President following the unfortunate departure of Nickey Iyambo due to health reasons.
According to NewsUnzip, the current First Lady, Mrs. Sustjie Mbumba, is a former teacher, social worker, and philanthropist.
She acts as a director of Women at Work, also known as WoW.
This non-profit organisation is dedicated to empowering marginalised women through training programs. These courses include general know-how in housekeeping, dressmaking, and cooking.
Together, the presidential couple has four adult children and several grandchildren.
His Excellency is not only an academic by heart but also a published author. His book is titled Namibia in History: Junior Secondary History Book (1990). Available country-wide in libraries and schools.
Moreover, he has also contributed to multiple academic papers, bodies of research, and academic literature, such as articles on finance, education, agriculture, and politics.
Upcoming elections
Mbumba has stated that he has no intention of running for the presidential office in 2025. He will simply and nobly pass over the presidential post to the newly elected leader.
President Mbumba stands poised to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
As the nation looks towards the future with optimism and resolve, Mbumba’s tenure offers a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring strength of Namibia’s democracy.
