In a historic and bold move, Namibia’s newly inaugurated President, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has ordered the deportation of over 500 American nationals, citing longstanding concerns over visa reciprocity and diplomatic parity.
The presidential directive, issued on Monday, marks the first major foreign policy decision by Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah, who made history last month as Namibia’s first female head of state.
The decision comes amid growing frustration among Namibian officials regarding the stringent and often inconsistent visa requirements imposed on Namibian citizens seeking entry into the United States.
“Namibia will no longer accept one-sided policies that treat our people unfairly,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah said during a press briefing at State House in Windhoek. “Diplomatic relations must be built on mutual respect, and reciprocity is a cornerstone of that respect.”
The mass deportation affects a wide range of U.S. nationals, including expatriates, NGO workers, business consultants, and some individuals in the tourism sector who were reportedly in violation of local immigration policies. Officials confirmed that all affected individuals will be given seven days to leave the country, though exceptions may be considered on humanitarian or diplomatic grounds.
Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration noted that this move is part of a broader reevaluation of visa agreements with several countries. “For too long, Namibians have faced excessive hurdles in securing U.S. visas, while Americans enjoy far greater access to our country,” said Minister Hilma Nicanor. “This action sends a clear message: fairness must go both ways.”
International observers have expressed mixed reactions. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the abruptness of the action, while pan-African voices have praised the decision as a long-overdue assertion of sovereignty and equality on the global stage.
The U.S. Embassy in Windhoek has acknowledged the order and stated that it is working closely with Namibian authorities to ensure a smooth departure process for American nationals.
A formal response from Washington is expected in the coming days.
This unprecedented step by Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah signals a new, assertive era in Namibia’s foreign policy and could influence other African nations reevaluating their diplomatic dynamics with Western powers.
