Staff Reporter
THE long-serving Chief of Protocol in the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Leonard Iipumbu, has been appointed by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as Namibia’s Ambassador to Angola. Announcing his appointment, State House described Ambassador Iipumbu as a highly accomplished diplomat.
He brings with him more than thirty years of experience in international relations, governance, and public administration, having served Namibia with distinction both at home and abroad while consistently advancing the country’s foreign policy objectives and strengthening its global presence.
He previously served as Namibia’s Ambassador to the United States of America, with concurrent accreditation to Brazil, Canada, and Mexico, and earlier as Ambassador to France, with non-resident responsibilities for Italy, Portugal, and Spain, while also serving as Namibia’s Delegate to UNESCO.
As State Chief of Protocol in the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, he played a pivotal role in coordinating high-level state engagements and representing Namibia’s diplomatic interests with excellence.
Iipumbu holds a Master’s Degree in International Services from the American University in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Financial Management from the Institut Supérieur de Gestion (ISG) in Paris, France.
He is a veteran of the liberation struggle, having served as a PLAN combatant and as SWAPO’s Chief Representative in several countries, including Zambia, Botswana, and the People’s Republic of Congo.
As Ambassador to Angola, Iipumbu will play a crucial role in deepening the historical bonds of friendship and solidarity between Namibia and Angola — nations united by shared history, culture, and sacrifice.
According to the Presidency, Iipumbu’s appointment reaffirms Namibia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, infrastructure, and regional security, as well as advancing the shared vision of integration and prosperity within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
President Nandi-Ndaitwah congratulated Iipumbu on his appointment and wished him success as he undertakes the important mission in service of the Namibian nation.
