Africa-Press – Namibia. Ndeitwah, the ruling Swapo party’s vice-president and prospective presidential candidate in next year’s elections, has done a tremendous job over the years for the upliftment of women, the protection of children, and the combating of gender-based violence. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed by her Christian denomination and have now earned her a historic sub-continental award.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is also the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations, is the winner of the Order of Simon of Cyrene Award, which is awarded to the laity of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa who have distinguished themselves through their service to humanity. She is credited for her excellent work as Director-General of Women Affairs (1996 to 2000) and as Minister of Women Affairs and Child Welfare (2000 to 2005). She has also advocated for women’s rights at continental and international platforms.
The award is named after a first-century African who, according to the Bible, was compelled by the Romans to carry the cross of Jesus as He was taken to His crucifixion. Nandi-Ndaitwah emerged as the top nominee among several nominees from the 28 dioceses of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa.
The announcement of the award winner took place during a Synod where all the diocesan Bishops met in Gauteng, South Africa, from 23 February to 3 March this year. According to Bishop Patrick Djuulume of the Anglican Church in Namibia, the Order of Simon of Cyrene is the highest award given by the Anglican Church of Southern Africa to laity for distinguished service. The award was established in 1960, and Nandi-Ndaitwah is its 81st recipient and the first Namibian to receive this honour.
Bishop Djuulume noted that although the recipient of the award is a politician, the award has nothing to do with politics per se. It is awarded solely based on the recipient’s service to humanity. “That she is seen as a future presidential candidate of a certain political party is a mere coincidence,” said Djuulume.
A special service, during which the award will be conferred upon Nandi-Ndaitwah, was initially scheduled to take place in Windhoek on 28 May, but the date was changed. It will now take place on 18 June.
“We are in a joyful mood. As you know, the overwhelming majority of Namibians are Christians. We, Swapo members, are therefore very happy that Christendom is giving this great honour to Comrade Nandi-Ndaitwah,” said Swapo activist Sigo Amunyela.
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