A former Keele University student has made history by becoming the first female President of Namibia.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who was previously the country's vice-president and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, won the general election with more than 57 per cent of the vote.

The country's fifth president, Netumbo, aged 72, graduated from Keele in 1989 with a Masters degree in diplomatic studies. She has served in high government office in the country for a quarter of a century and becomes Keele's first graduate to become a Head of State.

Professor Trevor McMillan OBE, Vice-Chancellor of Keele University, said: "Our global network of over 100,000 alumni in 120 countries is creating positive impact across the world in a range of diverse careers.

"We're very proud that our community of alumni can now count a Head of State within their ranks, especially coming during Keele's 75th anniversary year, and we wish Netumbo success during her time in office."

At least 1.4 million people, or about half of the population, had registered to vote in the elections, with 15 political parties running for president and seats in the National Assembly.

Netumbo's political career began in 1966 when she joined the South West Africa People's Organisation (SWAPO) political party and former independence movement at the age of 14.

Netumbo left the country in 1974 in exile to campaign for Namibia’s independence before returning to Namibia shortly after graduating from Keele. Following Namibia's independence in 1990, she was appointed the country’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.

During her political career, Netumbo has held the positions of Minister of Women's Affairs and Child Welfare (2000-2005), Minister of Information and Broadcasting (2005-2010), Minister of Environment and Tourism (2010-2012), and Minister of Foreign Affairs (2012-2015).

She played a pivotal role in advocating for the protection of the rights of women and children and as President of the Namibian National Women's Organisation (NANAWO), she worked with the Law Reform Commission of Namibia, to promote the adoption of national legislations on Married Persons Equality and Domestic Violence.

In the run-up to the election, Netumbo campaigned for youth empowerment, sustainable development and improving the education system in Namibia. She promised to create more jobs and tackle the 20 per cent unemployment rate for young people and graduates.

*Image courtesy of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's office.