NAMIBIA
Date of establishment: March 21, 1990
Brief history:
Pre-colonial Period: Before European colonization, the area now known as Namibia was inhabited by several indigenous groups, including the San (Bushmen), Damara, Nama, and later the Herero and Ovambo peoples. These groups had distinct cultures, languages, and social structures. The coastal region, particularly around Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, was explored by Portuguese navigators in the late 15th century, but significant European settlement did not begin until much later.
1884: The German Empire claimed South West Africa (present-day Namibia) and began colonizing it. Germany established control over the region through treaties and military conquest, leading to the establishment of a formal colony. This period was marked by conflicts between the German colonial forces and indigenous peoples, particularly the Herero and Nama, who resisted colonization.
1904-1908: The Herero and Namaqua genocide occurred during this period when German colonial forces brutally suppressed uprisings by the Herero and Nama peoples. Tens of thousands of Herero and Nama were killed, and many were subjected to forced labor and imprisonment in concentration camps. This event is considered one of the first genocides of the 20th century.
1915: During World War I, the Union of South Africa (today’s Republic of South Africa) occupied South West Africa and gained control of the territory from Germany. South African forces defeated the German colonial troops, and the territory came under South African military administration.
1920: South West Africa was officially designated as a League of Nations Mandate under the administration of the Union of South Africa. Although the mandate required South Africa to prepare the territory for eventual self-governance, South Africa administered it as a de facto fifth province, implementing apartheid laws and exploiting its resources.
1946: After the dissolution of the League of Nations, South Africa refused to place South West Africa under United Nations (UN) trusteeship, as was expected for former mandate territories. Instead, South Africa continued its administration, including the enforcement of apartheid policies.
1960-1980: Namibia’s struggle for independence intensified during this period, led by the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), which was founded in 1960. SWAPO, initially a political organization, later developed an armed wing, the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN), and began guerrilla warfare against South African forces. The liberation struggle garnered significant international support, and Namibia’s independence became a focal point of Cold War-era decolonization efforts.
1971-1978: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an advisory opinion in 1971, declaring South Africa’s continued presence in Namibia illegal. Despite this, South Africa continued to administer the territory. In 1978, the UN Security Council passed Resolution 435, which laid out a framework for Namibia’s transition to independence, although it would take another decade for these plans to be implemented.
1988: After long negotiations, international pressure, and a protracted guerrilla war, an agreement was signed between South Africa, Angola, and Cuba, with the United States acting as a mediator. This agreement, known as the Tripartite Accord, led to the withdrawal of South African troops from Namibia and paved the way for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 435.
March 21, 1990: Namibia was officially declared an independent republic following UN-supervised elections in which SWAPO won a decisive victory. Sam Nujoma, the leader of SWAPO, became the first President of Namibia.
1990s and 2000s: Namibia gradually developed as an independent state, holding regular democratic elections and experiencing economic growth. The country implemented various social and economic reforms, although challenges such as poverty, inequality, and land reform persisted.
Present: Namibia remains an independent state with democratic institutions, though it continues to face social and economic challenges, including the unequal distribution of wealth and land.
International abbreviation: NA
Currency: Namibian dollar NAD
The Namibian dollar has been the official currency of Namibia since 1993, three years after the country gained independence in 1990. Prior to the introduction of the Namibian dollar, Namibia used the South African rand (ZAR), which continues to be accepted as legal tender in Namibia due to a one-to-one peg between the Namibian dollar and the South African rand.
The Namibian dollar is subdivided into 100 cents. The Bank of Namibia is responsible for issuing banknotes and coins.
Banknotes are available in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 Namibian dollars. These banknotes feature images of significant Namibian historical figures, such as Hendrik Witbooi and Sam Nujoma, as well as important national symbols and landmarks.
Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10, and 50 cents, as well as 1, 5, and 10 Namibian dollars. The coins often depict symbols of Namibia’s natural heritage, such as indigenous animals and plants.
The Namibian dollar’s peg to the South African rand plays a crucial role in the country’s economic stability, given the close economic ties between Namibia and South Africa.
Internet domain: .na
Dialing code: +264
Time zone: GMT +2
Geography:
Namibia is best known for the Namib Desert, one of the oldest and most iconic deserts in the world. The Namib Desert is famous for its tall sand dunes, particularly in the Sossusvlei area, where some of the dunes can reach heights of up to 325 meters (1,066 feet). These dunes are among the highest in the world and are a major attraction due to their striking red color and the dramatic landscapes they create.
Namibia has a coastline of approximately 1,570 kilometers (975 miles) along the Atlantic Ocean. This coastline is often referred to as the “Skeleton Coast”, named for the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred along its treacherous shores, as well as the whale and seal bones that once littered the area. The Skeleton Coast is also known for its remote and rugged beauty, with features such as the Skeleton Coast National Park, unique geological formations, and diverse wildlife, including desert-adapted elephants and seals.
The interior of Namibia is characterized by extensive plains, highlands, and mountain ranges. The Central Plateau or Central Highlands is a key feature of Namibia’s geography, running from the north to the south of the country. This region includes the Khomas Highlands and the Otavi Mountains. The area is mountainous and wild, with significant peaks like the Brandberg Mountain, which is also home to the famous ancient rock painting known as the White Lady. Other notable mountains include the Erongo Mountains and the Sperrgebiet in the south, which is a diamond mining area with restricted access.
Although Namibia is a largely arid country, it is traversed by several perennial and ephemeral rivers. The most significant river is the Orange River, which forms the southern border with South Africa. The Kunene River and the Zambezi River are also important, with the Kunene forming part of the northern border with Angola and the Zambezi located in the northeastern tip of Namibia, known as the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip). These rivers are crucial for agriculture, wildlife, and as sources of water in an otherwise dry landscape.
Namibia is also home to the Kalahari Desert in the eastern part of the country, which extends into Botswana and South Africa. The Kalahari is known for its red sand, unique flora and fauna, and the San people, who have traditionally lived in this region for thousands of years.
Highest peak: Brandberg 2 573 m a.s.l. (8 442 feet above sea level)
Brandberg is located in Erongo Province in western Namibia. The mountain is known for its characteristic red color, which is due to the decomposition of rocks in the area.
Climate:
Most of Namibia has a desert or semi-desert climate, characterized by arid conditions and significant temperature variations between day and night. The Namib Desert, which stretches along the west coast, is one of the driest and oldest deserts in the world. In this region, there is minimal precipitation, often less than 20 millimeters (0.8 inches) per year, and high temperatures during the day. Average daytime temperatures in the desert region range from 20-30°C (68-86°F), but can rise even higher during the summer months. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes even below freezing, especially during the winter months.
Along the Atlantic coast, the climate is milder due to the influence of the cold Benguela Current, which flows northward along the coast. Coastal towns like Swakopmund and Walvis Bay experience cooler and more stable temperatures compared to the interior, with average temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). The coastal climate is generally cooler and foggy, with frequent morning fogs that provide a crucial source of moisture for the otherwise arid environment. Rainfall is still low on the coast, but fog is a vital water source for both flora and fauna.
Inland, the climate becomes more continental, with more pronounced temperature fluctuations between day and night. The Central Plateau and other interior regions experience hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), especially in the northern and northeastern parts of the country. During winter, temperatures can drop sharply at night, often approaching freezing, particularly in the higher altitude regions.
Namibia has a summer rainy season, which generally occurs from November to April. The amount of rainfall varies significantly across the country, with the northern and northeastern regions (such as the Zambezi Region and Kavango areas) receiving the most rainfall, sometimes exceeding 600 millimeters (24 inches) per year. This contrasts sharply with the more arid regions in the south and west, where rainfall is much lower. Rainfall is often in the form of localized thunderstorms, which can cause flash floods in dry riverbeds.
Fauna and flora:
Namibia is renowned for its unique and diverse wildlife, particularly its ability to sustain large populations of wild animals in some of the harshest environments on Earth. The country is famous for wildlife that has adapted to its arid climate. Notably, the oryx (gemsbok) and springbok are iconic desert-dwelling antelopes well-suited to the dry conditions of the Namib Desert and the Kalahari Desert. These animals, along with Hartmann’s mountain zebra, thrive in the extreme environment and are important symbols of Namibia’s natural heritage.
Etosha National Park is one of Namibia’s most famous wildlife reserves and a premier destination for safaris and wildlife viewing. In Etosha, visitors can see a wide range of large mammals, including African elephants, black and white rhinoceroses, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, zebras, and various species of antelope, such as kudu and eland. The park is centered around the vast Etosha Pan, a large salt pan that fills with water during the rainy season, attracting a variety of wildlife and birds.
Namibia is also a paradise for ornithologists, with over 600 species of birds recorded in the country. Notable bird species include flamingos, African fish eagles, Peregrine falcons, vultures, and the critically endangered lappet-faced vulture. The coastal regions, particularly around Walvis Bay and the Skeleton Coast, are important habitats for migratory birds, including large flocks of flamingos and pelicans. Waterfowl, such as ducks and herons, are often found near salt lakes, marshes, and seasonal rivers known as omiramba.
In the arid desert regions, species like the Namib Desert beetle have adapted to survive in extreme conditions by collecting moisture from fog, a vital water source in the Namib. Various insects and reptiles have adapted to the harsh desert environment with unique survival strategies.
The coastal areas of Namibia are rich in marine life. The Cape Cross Seal Reserve is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world. Dolphins, whales, and various species of fish are also abundant in the cold, nutrient-rich waters off Namibia’s coast, making it an important region for both marine biodiversity and fishing.
Namibia’s flora is equally remarkable, with many plants adapted to the arid conditions and extreme temperatures. The country is home to the Welwitschia mirabilis, one of the oldest and most unique plants in the world, endemic to the Namib Desert. This plant is characterized by its two long, strap-like leaves that grow continuously over its long lifespan, which can exceed 1,000 years. Other well-adapted plant species include acacia trees, aloe species (such as Aloe dichotoma, or quiver tree), and various succulents.
Agriculture:
Due to the dry climatic conditions and the prevalence of desert and semi-desert environments, pastoralism is a significant part of agriculture in Namibia. Cattle and sheep farming are the most common agricultural activities, particularly in the central and southern parts of the country. Goats are also widely farmed, especially in more arid regions, due to their ability to thrive in harsh conditions. Livestock farming is a critical sector in Namibia’s economy, providing both domestic food supplies and export products, with beef being one of the country’s major agricultural exports.
Despite the overall aridity of Namibia, some areas, particularly in the northern regions, receive sufficient rainfall to support crop production. In these regions, especially in the Ovambo and Kavango areas, subsistence farming of crops such as maize (corn), millets (particularly pearl millet, known locally as mahangu), and sorghum is common. These staple crops are essential for local food security. Wheat is also grown, though on a smaller scale, typically in irrigated areas along the Orange River in the south.
Namibia has emerging viticulture (grape cultivation) in areas with suitable microclimates, particularly in the southern regions such as the Orange River Valley. However, wine production in Namibia is relatively small compared to neighboring South Africa. Some vineyards, like those near Aussenkehr, produce grapes primarily for table consumption rather than wine production. While Namibian wines have made some strides in quality, they have not yet gained significant international recognition compared to wines from major wine-producing countries.
In the Kavango region, along the Okavango River, fruits such as citrus, mangoes, bananas, papayas, and grapes are grown. This region benefits from better rainfall and the availability of water for irrigation, allowing for more diverse agricultural activities compared to the drier parts of the country.
Extraction of natural resources:
Namibia is one of the world’s leading producers of diamonds, particularly gem-quality diamonds. In Namibia, the most significant diamond mining operations are in the Sperrgebiet (also known as the “Forbidden Zone”) in the southwestern part of the country and offshore along the Namibian coast. Namdeb Diamond Corporation, a joint venture between the Namibian government and De Beers, operates many of the onshore mines, while Debmarine Namibia specializes in offshore diamond mining. Diamonds are one of the main pillars of the Namibian economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and state revenue.
Namibia has significant reserves of uranium, making it one of the top producers of this critical mineral globally. The Rössing Uranium Mine, located near the town of Arandis in the Erongo Region, is one of the longest-operating open-pit uranium mines in the world. Another major uranium mine is the Husab Mine, which began production in 2016 and is now one of the largest uranium mines by production capacity. These operations are vital to global nuclear energy supply chains and contribute substantially to Namibia’s economy.
Copper is also mined in Namibia, with significant operations in areas such as Tsumeb, Otjihase, and Kombat. The Tsumeb area is particularly notable for its rich polymetallic ores, which historically included copper, lead, and zinc. The Tsumeb Smelter processes copper concentrates, and the region has a long history of mining. Lead and zinc mining occurs at the Rosh Pinah Mine in the southern part of the country and the Skorpion Zinc Mine, which is known for its high-purity zinc production.
Namibia is also rich in other minerals, including gold, with the Navachab Gold Mine being the most significant gold mine in the country. Graphite is mined at the Otjiwarongo area, phosphate is explored offshore, and there are prospects for iron ore and other base metals.
Industry:
Namibia’s main industries include mining and mineral processing, food and beverage production, fish processing, manufacturing, energy production, and construction. The mining industry is the cornerstone of Namibia’s economy, with diamonds, uranium, gold, and other minerals being key exports. Mineral processing, particularly for diamonds and uranium, is a significant industrial activity.
The food and beverage industry is another important sector, with a focus on the processing of agricultural products such as meat, fish, and dairy. Namibia is known for its high-quality beef, much of which is exported, and fish processing is a major industry due to the country’s rich marine resources. The fishing industry is centered around Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, where facilities process fish such as hake, pilchard, and horse mackerel. Fish exports are a vital part of Namibia’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.
Energy production in Namibia is largely based on hydropower, thermal power, and increasingly, other renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. The Ruacana Hydroelectric Power Station on the Kunene River is one of the country’s main sources of electricity, while new investments are being made in solar and wind energy to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependence on imported electricity.
Metal processing in Namibia includes the smelting and refining of minerals such as copper at facilities like the Tsumeb Smelter, which processes copper concentrates from both local and international sources. The smelter also produces by-products like sulfuric acid, which is used in mining operations.
The construction industry in Namibia is experiencing growth due to increasing urbanization and infrastructure development. There has been significant investment in the construction of roads, hospitals, schools, and other public infrastructure, particularly in urban areas like Windhoek (the capital) and coastal towns.
In addition to these industries, Namibia’s manufacturing sector is relatively small but growing, with activities in areas such as textiles, leather goods, and consumer products.
Namibia’s fishing industry is a major contributor to the economy, leveraging the long Atlantic coastline to harvest and process various fish species. The country’s exclusive economic zone is rich in marine resources, making fishing and fish processing industries significant employers and export earners.
Services and other areas of the economy: transport and tourism
Natural and historical attractions: Etosha National Park, the Namib Desert, Twyfelfontein areas, Sossusvlei, and Windhoek city
Namibia is one of the best destinations in the world for safari and wildlife viewing. Etosha National Park is one of the most famous parks, offering the chance to see a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinoceroses (both black and white), giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and many species of antelopes and birds. The park is centered around the vast Etosha Pan, a salt pan that attracts wildlife from miles around, particularly during the dry season when animals gather at the waterholes.
The Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world, is renowned for its stark beauty and monumental sand dunes, such as those in Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. These dunes, some of the highest in the world, create a breathtaking landscape of deep red sands set against a clear blue sky. Sossusvlei is particularly famous for its large clay pan surrounded by towering dunes, offering some of the most iconic desert scenery in the world.
The coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are popular tourist destinations, known for their unique blend of German colonial architecture, adventure sports, and stunning coastal scenery. Swakopmund offers activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, and skydiving, while Walvis Bay is famous for its lagoon, which is a haven for flamingos, pelicans, and other bird species, as well as for opportunities to see dolphins and seals.
Namibia also offers rich cultural experiences, with opportunities to learn about the traditional lifestyles of indigenous tribes such as the Himba and the San (Bushmen). The Himba people, known for their distinctive red-ochre body paint and traditional attire, live in the remote Kunene region and maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle. The San are one of the oldest continuous cultures on Earth, and visitors can learn about their traditional hunting and gathering practices, as well as their deep knowledge of the natural environment.
The country is also home to unique geological formations, such as the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and one of the most impressive in the world. Located in the south of Namibia, the Fish River Canyon offers dramatic views, hiking opportunities, and hot springs. Another geological wonder is Spitzkoppe, often referred to as the “Matterhorn of Namibia,” a group of granite peaks that rise sharply from the desert floor, providing a stunning backdrop for photography and rock climbing.
In addition to its natural attractions, Namibia has a number of historical sites that reflect its colonial past and the diverse cultures that have shaped the nation. Kolmanskop, a former diamond mining town now abandoned and partially reclaimed by the desert, offers a haunting glimpse into Namibia’s history of diamond mining. Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to one of the largest concentrations of prehistoric rock engravings in Africa, providing insights into the lives of early inhabitants.
 |
 |
 |
Form of government: semi-presidential republic
Namibia has a semi-presidential republic system of government. The president is both the head of state and head of government and holds significant executive power. The president is elected by direct popular vote for a five-year term and may serve a maximum of two terms. The president appoints the prime minister, who is responsible for coordinating government activities, and the cabinet, which consists of ministers responsible for various government departments.
Namibia has a multi-party political system, meaning several political parties participate in elections and the political process. The South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) has been the dominant political party since independence in 1990, although other parties, such as the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM), also play a role in the political landscape.
Legislative power in Namibia is vested in a bicameral parliament consisting of two chambers: the National Assembly and the National Council. The National Assembly is the lower house and has 104 members, 96 of whom are elected for five-year terms through a proportional representation system, while 8 are appointed by the president. The National Assembly is the primary legislative body, responsible for passing laws and overseeing the executive branch.
The National Council is the upper house of parliament and consists of 42 members who are elected for six-year terms. The National Council represents the regional councils and reviews legislation passed by the National Assembly, providing additional oversight.
Namibia has an independent judiciary, which includes the Supreme Court, the High Court, and lower courts such as magistrate courts. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the country and primarily handles constitutional and appellate cases. There is no separate Court of Appeal; the Supreme Court functions as the court of last resort for appeals. Judges are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission of Namibia, which ensures that the judiciary operates independently and fairly.
Capital city: Windhoek
Windhoek, located in the central part of Namibia, is the economic, political, and cultural center of the country. The name “Windhoek” is believed to derive from the Afrikaans or Dutch “Wind-Hoek,” meaning “corner of wind,” likely referring to the windy conditions often experienced in the region. Some theories also suggest it could be named after the Winterhoek Mountains in South Africa, where early settlers came from.
Windhoek’s modern history began in the early 1840s when Jonker Afrikaner, a leader of the Oorlam people, established a settlement in the area. However, the city was formally established in 1890 by the German colonial administration during the period when Namibia was known as German South West Africa. Windhoek became the administrative center of the colony and was developed with distinctive German colonial architecture, much of which still defines the city’s character today. After World War I, Namibia (then South West Africa) was mandated to South Africa by the League of Nations. Despite the change in control, Windhoek remained the capital of the territory. Following Namibia’s independence from South African rule in 1990, Windhoek continued to serve as the capital of the newly independent Republic of Namibia.
Windhoek is known for its mix of modern and historical architecture, reflecting the city’s colonial past and post-independence development. Among the key sights is Christuskirche, a Lutheran church completed in 1910, known for its distinctive neo-Gothic architecture combined with Art Nouveau elements. The church is situated at the intersection of the city’s main streets and stands as a symbol of Windhoek. The Tintenpalast, meaning “Ink Palace,” houses Namibia’s Parliament and was constructed in 1913, surrounded by the Parliament Gardens, which offer a green oasis in the heart of the city.
Alte Feste, or “Old Fortress,” built in 1890, is one of the oldest buildings in Windhoek and served as a military headquarters during the German colonial period. Today, it is part of the National Museum of Namibia and offers insights into the country’s colonial history. The Independence Memorial Museum, opened in 2014, is a modern museum dedicated to Namibia’s struggle for independence and is located near the Christuskirche. It offers panoramic views of the city and features exhibits on the country’s liberation history.
Zoo Park, originally a public zoo during the German colonial period, is now a public park in the city center, popular for relaxation and home to a monument dedicated to Namibia’s pre-colonial history. A visit to Katutura, a vibrant township, provides insight into the social and cultural dynamics of Windhoek. Katutura was established during the apartheid era as a segregated area for black residents and has since grown into a bustling community with markets, cultural sites, and local eateries.
Windhoek also serves as a gateway to Namibia’s natural attractions, including safaris in Etosha National Park and the stunning landscapes of the Namib Desert.
The city has a population of about 494 000.
Area: 825 615 km2 (318 772 square miles)
Population: 2 890 000 (2022 estimate)
Namibia has a diverse population made up of various ethnic and cultural groups. The largest ethnic group is the Ovambo, who make up about half of the population and primarily reside in the northern part of the country. Other significant groups include the Herero and Himba (who are closely related but culturally distinct), the Nama, the Damara, and the Kavango. The San (also known as Bushmen) are one of the oldest indigenous groups in Namibia, known for their hunter-gatherer traditions. The Caprivian, Baster, and Tswana are other important ethnic groups in Namibia.
The official language of Namibia is English, which is used in government, education, and as a lingua franca among the diverse linguistic groups. However, English is spoken as a first language by a minority of the population. Other widespread languages include Oshiwambo (which encompasses several dialects, with Oshindonga and Oshikwanyama being the most common), Herero, Khoekhoegowab (Nama/Damara), Afrikaans, and German. Afrikaans and German have historical significance due to Namibia’s colonial past under South African and German rule, respectively, and they continue to be spoken by a portion of the population.
The dominant religion in Namibia is Christianity, which is practiced by the vast majority of the population. Most Christians in Namibia belong to Protestant denominations, particularly the Lutheran Church, which reflects the historical influence of German missionaries. There is also a significant number of Roman Catholics. In addition to Christianity, many Namibians practice traditional African religions, often in combination with their Christian beliefs. These traditional practices involve ancestor worship, rituals, and the use of traditional healers.
Namibia’s health care system aims to provide basic health care to all residents, though access to services can vary significantly between urban and rural areas. Since independence, the health system has been expanded and improved, with particular focus on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. Namibia has made significant progress in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic, with increased access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and prevention programs, which have helped to reduce the prevalence and impact of the disease.
Namibia’s population is relatively young, with a large proportion under the age of 25, which presents both opportunities and challenges for the country’s development.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 2
|
 |
|
- Twyfelfontein (2007) – Twyfelfontein is known for its extensive collection of rock engravings (petroglyphs). These are thought to date back at least 2,000 to 6,000 years, making them much older than 1000 CE.
- Namib Sand Sea (2013) – This UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses the sand dunes of the Namib Desert along the Atlantic coast. The Namib Sand Sea is unique as it is the only coastal desert in the world with extensive dunes influenced by fog. This site is recognized for its stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems, and remarkable biodiversity adapted to the harsh desert environment.
National parks: 12
|
 |
|
- ǀAi-ǀAis/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
- Bwabwata National Park
- Dorob National Park
- Etosha National Park
- Khaudum National Park
- Mangetti National Park
- Mudumu National Park
- Namib-Naukluft National Park
- Nkasa Rupara National Park
- Skeleton Coast National Park
- Tsau ǁKhaeb National Park
- Waterberg Plateau National Park
