Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah: political leader and head of household. (Namibian Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs)

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is Namibia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, President of the Namibia National Women's Organisation (Nanawo), a mother of three, and head of household. Heike Becker spoke to her about her life in politics and at home.

At 41, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is one of the few women in power in Namibia. As the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, she has moved into an unusual position for women. Worldwide, women in politics are mostly confined to social affairs like health, but seldom make it in "key ministries," such as defense, home or foreign affairs.

Born in Onamiitai in the Oshana region, Netumbo became a leader early in her life. While she was schooling at St. Mary's, the Anglican mission in Odibo, she became the Chairperson of the Southwest African People's Organisation (SWAPO) Youth League for the …