The recent election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s President has once again highlighted Africa’s capacity to break the glass ceiling for women in leadership. It is a moment worth celebrating and reflecting upon, especially when juxtaposed with the global landscape of female political leadership. Africa, often saddled with stereotypes of patriarchal dominance, emerges as a beacon of hope, challenging and redefining traditional power structures. 

Historically, African continent has demonstrated remarkable openness to women in political positions, with leaders such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, Joyce Banda of Malawi, and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania paving the way. In comparison, many continents that boast of being bastions of democracy and gender equity lag significantly in electing women presidents or prime ministers. 

The recent U.S. presidential election demonstrated the ongoing gender barriers in global politics, as Americans, despite having a highly qualified candidate in Kamala Harris, chose not to vote for her. Harris, with her extensive political experience and qualifications, was widely regarded as a more competent candidate compared to Donald Trump. Yet, the reluctance to elect a woman to the highest office in the land highlights how even nations that pride themselves on democracy and gender equity often fall short when it comes to breaking the glass ceiling. This stands in stark contrast to African nations like Liberia, Malawi, and Tanzania, where women have risen to leadership positions, proving that gender does not preclude political excellence.

Ostensibly to boost African record in this regard, Namibia’s president-elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will be the first woman to hold the position since the Southern African nation gained independence from South Africa in 1990. Unless the legal challenge mounted by the opposition against the election results giving victory to the ruling SWAPO party succeeds, she will be sworn in as head of state in March next year. 

For the sake of clarity, this piece explores Africa’s historical and current strides in gender inclusivity in political leadership, contrasts this with the global context, and examines why Africa remains the most amenable continent for women presidents.

In fact, Africa’s relationship with female leadership is neither new nor accidental. Historical records reflect the reign of powerful queens and matriarchs, such as Queen Amina of Zazzau, Queen Moremi Ajasoro of Ife, Madam Efunroye Tinubu, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Margaret Ekpo as well Queen Idia and Queen Iden of the ancient Benin Kingdom. 

Apart from notable queens who emerged from Nigeria in the ancient days, there were Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba (modern-day Angola) and the Dahomey Amazons of present-day Benin. These women were not only political figures but also military strategists and cultural icons, showcasing the continent’s early recognition of women’s capacity to lead.

In modern politics, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s election as Liberia’s President in 2005 marked a watershed moment. As Africa’s first elected female head of state, she ushered in a new era, earning a Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in women’s empowerment. Joyce Banda of Malawi followed suit, albeit in a transitional capacity, and demonstrated an ability to steer her country through challenging times.

Samia Suluhu Hassan’s ascension to the Tanzanian presidency in 2021 further solidified this trend. Her leadership during a politically turbulent period cemented her reputation as a unifier and a progressive leader. These trailblazers have not only shattered societal expectations but also built a legacy that inspires younger generations of women to aspire for leadership.

Without a doubt, several factors contribute to Africa’s relative openness to women presidents, despite persisting challenges of inequality, and such factors cut across matriarchal and gender-inclusive traditions, activism and women’s movements, legal frameworks and resilience of African women. 

To put it comprehensively, it is germane to opine that while patriarchy is pervasive, many African societies historically had matriarchal systems where women held significant political and social influence. These traditions, albeit eroded in some regions, still resonate in the collective consciousness, creating an environment where female leadership is not entirely alien.

In a similar vein, grassroots activism and the influence of women’s movements across Africa have been instrumental in pushing for political inclusivity. Organizations such as the African Women’s Leadership Network and the African Union’s emphasis on gender parity have created platforms for women to ascend to leadership roles.

Also, many African countries have adopted legal frameworks that promote gender parity in politics. Rwanda, for instance, boasts the highest proportion of women in parliament globally, with over 60% representation. This trend creates a pipeline of experienced female politicians ready to assume presidential roles.

Again, the resilience and resourcefulness of African women, often shouldering the burden of economic sustenance and community leadership, make them natural leaders. Their lived experiences enable them to connect with the electorate on a deeply personal level.

Globally, women leaders remain a rarity. Europe, often perceived as a bastion of progressiveness, has seen its share of female leaders, including Angela Merkel of Germany and Margaret Thatcher of the UK. However, these examples are sporadic and rarely reflective of broader societal acceptance. In the Americas, female presidents such as Dilma Rousseff of Brazil and Cristina Fernández de Kirchner of Argentina have risen to power, but the U.S., despite its global influence, has yet to elect a woman president.

Asia has a mixed record, with countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh producing iconic female leaders such as Indira Gandhi, Benazir Bhutto, and Sheikh Hasina. However, these leaders often hail from powerful political dynasties, suggesting that societal structures, rather than meritocratic processes, propel their rise.

In stark contrast, Africa’s female leaders often emerge from diverse backgrounds, embodying the potential for broader societal acceptance. For instance, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s journey from exile to presidency exemplifies resilience rather than hereditary privilege. Similarly, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s career trajectory as a diplomat and freedom fighter underscores Africa’s willingness to reward competence and dedication.

While Africa’s progress is commendable, significant challenges remain. Cultural stereotypes, limited access to political funding, and gender-based violence in the political sphere still deter many women from pursuing leadership. Furthermore, the tokenistic inclusion of women in politics, often relegated to symbolic roles, undermines genuine progress.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election is a call to action for African nations to address these barriers. Her leadership provides an opportunity to advocate for more comprehensive gender inclusivity across political, economic, and social landscapes.

Africa’s progress in electing women leaders should not merely be a celebratory milestone; it should inspire sustained efforts toward gender equity. Policymakers must prioritize education and leadership training, economic empowerment and political reforms. Put in detailed perspective, it is expedient to opine that investing in programs that nurture young women leaders will create a sustainable pipeline of talent, even as women’s economic autonomy is critical to their political ascension.  In fact, policies promoting financial inclusion and entrepreneurship among women are vital.

In a similar vein, affirmative action policies, like gender quotas, should be complemented with structural reforms to dismantle systemic barriers.

Looking at the issue from global perspective, it is not a misnomer to opine that Africa’s embrace of female presidents is not just a continental achievement; it is a global inspiration. As the world grapples with increasing polarization and governance challenges, the leadership style often exhibited by women, characterized by inclusivity, empathy, and pragmatism,  offers a path forward. 

In the face of global crises, from climate change to economic instability, women leaders like Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah are well-positioned to steer the world toward solutions that prioritize collective well-being over divisive politics.

In fact, the election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is not just Namibia’s triumph; it is Africa’s reaffirmation of its capacity to lead the world in gender inclusivity. While challenges persist, the continent’s trajectory offers lessons for others. By celebrating and supporting women in leadership, Africa continues to dismantle archaic power structures and inspire a new era of governance. 

The global community must take note: the future of leadership is female, and Africa is leading the charge.