Namibia’s Nandi-Ndaitwah Reveals Granddaughter Chose Her Official Presidential Portrait
Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has revealed that her granddaughter chose the official portrait widely associated with her presidency, offering a personal glimpse into the image-making behind the country’s first female head of state.
Nandi-Ndaitwah made the revelation during a breakfast meeting with the Public Enterprises Chief Executives’ Forum in Windhoek on Thursday, where she also highlighted the potential of Namibia’s creative industry to contribute to the country’s economic development.
The president said her granddaughter, who was seven years old at the time, selected the portrait, adding a personal dimension to an image that has since become closely associated with her presidency.
Nandi-Ndaitwah used the occasion to underline the broader role of the creative sector, saying Namibia’s creative industries have the potential to generate employment, encourage innovation and contribute to economic growth.
She called for greater recognition of the sector as an economic contributor, particularly as Namibia seeks to diversify its economy and create opportunities for young people.
The president’s remarks highlight the intersection of culture, creativity and economic development, with the creative industry increasingly seen as a source of jobs and innovation across Africa.

