UJ honours Monica Geingos

Recognises two decades of economic and social impact
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) conferred an honorary doctorate upon former First Lady Monica Geingos on Monday, marking a poignant milestone in a career defined by transformative leadership. The ceremony, held during UJ’s 21st-anniversary graduation series, was a "bittersweet" occasion for the former Namibian First Lady. It served as a tribute not only to her extensive advocacy but also to the legacy of her late husband, President Hage Geingob, who had intended to supervise her doctoral studies before his passing in 2024.
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“It is a reminder from him that I’ve got work to do,” Geingos said. “This feels like confirmation that he was right to tell me to focus on what matters, and a nudge to fulfil my promise to him that I will work towards my PhD.”

Having spent over two decades in Namibia’s financial and investment sectors, Geingos redefined the role of First Lady (2015–2024) by integrating economic expertise with social development. As the founder of the One Economy Foundation and the #BeFree Movement, she has been a strong advocate for youth sexual health and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Her focus remains global. With Africans set to constitute one-fourth of the world’s population within 20 years, she warned against viewing young people merely as a source of labour or risk. “We need to start seeing the incredible potential they represent,” she urged, dedicating her recognition to the youth of the #BeFree Movement and those lost to preventable health conditions.

A lawyer and entrepreneur by training, Geingos attributed her success to three core principles: developing a thick skin, managing risk and conflict effectively, and relying on data and evidence over emotion.

She encouraged graduates, particularly young Black African women, to embrace resilience and critical thinking. “The ability to package, internalise, and process information quickly is the essential skill for the future,” she noted.

UJ Chancellor Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Vice-Chancellor Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi praised Geingos for her “sustained excellence”. Her influence extends across the continent, having served as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) and as a UNAIDS Special Advocate.

As over 13 000 students graduate this season, Mpedi noted that leaders like Geingos demonstrate what is possible when education is matched with purpose.

For Geingos, the honour is not a conclusion, but a catalyst: “The road continues.”