Best of namibia vol 1

Best of Namibia | 1
International Group Publisher Sven Boermeester
Africa Group Publisher Thapelo Letsholo
Namibia Partners Saress Investments Four
Wilhencia Uiras
Project Manager Gia Bischofberger
Editor Rebecca Eb
Production GVPedia Communications cc
Creative Direction iMedi8 Creative
Webmaster Liam Dobell
Printing Creda Press
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the
accuracy of the information in The ‘Best of Namibia” Vol.1.
Neither ‘Best of Namibia’, GVPedia Communications cc nor
Saress Investments Four assume any responsibility for errors
or omissions. The editor reserves the right to amend and alter
copy and visual material as deemed necessary.
All rights reserved: No part of this publication shall be
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form or by any means. This publication shall not be stored in
whole or in part in any form in any retrieval system.
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In Partnership with:
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Cell: +264 81 124 0247
Email: wuiras@gmail.com
Namibian team:
Vanessa Uiras
Dandago Uiras
Ndeyapo Jason
Kahoo Kandjoze
Best of Namibia Volume 1
We are proud to announce Best of Namibia as the latest in our
collection of prestigious books. Namibia has continuously proved
itself to be more than worthy of warranting a compilation such as
this. Not only is it one of the most peaceful countries in Africa,
which enjoyed a smooth transition into democracy, but it’s also one
of the most enchanting.
We have tried to capture as much of this enchantment in the pages that follow. This country
of stark contrasts has produced some magnificent imagery, which seems to tell the story of its
age-old mysticism. Namibia’s land is beautiful and fascinating and it has also yielded some of
the most astounding diamonds in the world. Beneath the surface of her soils, lie many spoils
awaiting discovery. However, the practicality of the government is such that there is a current
ongoing diversification of the economy.
Tourism is held in high regard for obvious reasons, so are land cultivation, transport and
shipping. The latter makes the most of the ideal situation of the country – being on the trade
route to the Cape of Good Hope, as well as having a prime linkage to South Africa, Botswana,
Zimbabwe, Zambia and Angola. As a result, Namibia has always strived to ensure good
relations with their SADC counterparts and has many important foreign policies. That said,
although the government highly values the vital relationships they have forged, there is a
concerted effort to ensure more economic independence instead of relying heavily on imports.
The political and economic stability, coupled with the peaceful nature of the Namibian people,
has resulted in the creation of a trading climate conducive to investment. In the Best of Namibia
we showcase not only the places, but the people, companies and organisations that have
earned their success. We put Namibia on show here for the world to see as a celebration for all
that the country has achieved.
This ancient land is home to the world’s oldest tribe – the San. Their centuries old practices of
preserving nature and unique mutually beneficial relationship with the flora and fauna around
them helped them adapt and survive in extremely harsh conditions. This relationship has left
an indelible mark on the Namibian people and all economic practices are sought in line with
the preservation of Namibia’s natural heritage – from eco-quad biking to strict regulations and
restrictions in environmental interaction. There is still work to be done but the Namibian people
understand that the benefits of preserving their land will be long-lasting.
We look forward to seeing the current policies and plans come to fruition in the years to come
and believe that there will be even more to celebrate in the near future.
For now, enjoy the spectacular showcase – and remember that the images here are even better
up close.
Thapelo Letsholo Sven Boermeester Gia Bischofberger Wilhencia Uiras
Proudly African
Boosting inter-trade & cultural
relations across the continent
www.ProudlyAfrican.info

Best of Namibia | 3
It gives me great pleasure
to introduce this beautiful
production – Best of Namibia,
a magnificent publication
which showcases the best in
travel, lifestyle and business in
Namibia.
Given its geographical location in many
respects, especially its transportation
infrastructure and integration with regional
markets, Namibia is undoubtedly a strategic
gateway to the fast developing markets
of southern Africa – let alone its political
stability, which is the hallmark of its socio-
economic development.
All industry in Namibia has been proudly
built with bricks of democracy, and its
launch-pad is thus, credited to our policy of
inclusivity in ensuring that the functioning
mechanisms of democracy remained well-
oiled – a mantra greatly valued and highly
guarded by Namibians and acknowledged
by many others.
This first edition of Best of Namibia certainly
creates a proud moment for Namibia – to
see its successes profiled in a legacy
project, as part of the globally renowned
Best of series.
We continue to earn our place on this global
platform as very few others can boast of the
vast natural beauty and resources which
Namibia is endowed with and is famous for.
The visual showcase presented here is
second only to viewing the real spectacle of
the country in person. The stable investment
climate is highly favourable, owing to our
proud position as a peaceful country.
It is my hope that this publication will give its
readers what Namibia and its people have
to offer in order to better understand the
wide range of opportunities that exist in this
land of wide open spaces and contrast –
Namibia, the boutique country.
I am therefore, delighted to be associated
with Best of Namibia, as this publication is
putting our country on show in a way that
has never been done before, with each
sector being accounted for and the players
in each industry captured through moving
imagery and their personal story.
I am thus, excited to introduce the first ever
compilation of this kind in our country and
hope that Best of Namibia will become a
good ambassador of Namibia.
Enjoy!
Foreword by HON. DR HAGE G. GEINGOB,
Minister of Trade and Industry

Investment and Future Visions
Training and Education
Banking and Insurance
Travel, Tours and Leisure
Media, Marketing and Film
Finance and Investment
Chapter1 66Chapter3 96Chapter5 120
CHAPTERS
4 | Best of Namibia

Energy
Transport and Logistics
Entrepreneurship
Oil, Gas, Mining and Minerals
Telecommunications and Industry
Chapter8 152Chapter10 172
Best of Namibia | 5

Over twenty years of Namibian independence
Little-known Namibia, one of Africa’s most
sparsely populated nations, is also one of
the continent’s most stable. In late March
2010, Namibia’s ambassador, Patrick
Nandago, held a reception in Washington
to celebrate “20 years of independence,
freedom, democracy and the rule of law in
our beautiful country.”
Several hundred people gathered at the
Omni Shoreham to help Nandago mark the
occasion – singing both “Namibia, Land of
the Brave” and “The Star-Spangled Banner”
as colour photos depicting the country’s
flora and fauna flashed on large screens.
Among the guests Nandago singled out
for special recognition were Susan Page,
the U.S. deputy assistant secretary of state
for African affairs at the time, and Chester
Crocker, who served as U.S. assistant
secretary of state for African affairs from
1981 to 1989.
“In the heat of the armed liberation
struggle in Namibia, and the civil war in
Angola,” said the ambassador, “Dr Crocker
was the man who developed the strategy
that produced the treaties signed by Angola,
Cuba and South Africa which culminated in
the ceasefire between South Africa’s UNITA
(National Union for the Total Independence
of Angola) rebels and SWAPO (the South-
West Africa People’s Organisation), leading
to the first democratic elections in Namibia.”
South Africa’s former colony finally
obtained independence on March 21st
1990, after 106 years of foreign occupation.
“Since then, Namibia has held free, fair
and peaceful elections every five years,
with the most recent one held in November
2009,” he said. “Over the years, we have
witnessed successful transfers of power,
and our country is known to be one of the
most democratic on the African continent.
Our economic and political stability makes it
an attractive location for investors.”
Turning the evening into a sales pitch for
his country, Nandago explained that the four
pillars of Namibia’s economy are agriculture,
mining, fishing and tourism. With only just
over two-million people in a country whose
land covers 825,418 sq km, Namibia should
be quite wealthy. And in fact, its exports of
diamonds, uranium, copper, gold and zinc
are legendary.
“Namibia is faced with many challenges,
including the availability of portable water,
access to quality healthcare, housing
and education, and the challenges of
By Larry Luxner
6 | Best of Namibia

unemployment, HIV-AIDS, tuberculosis
and malaria,” said Nandago. “Namibia did
not escape the brunt of climate change,
and for the last four years, the country has
witnessed severe drought and devastating
floods.”
Nor, he said, did the global economic
crisis spare Namibia. “But we remain
hopeful that things will turn around.”
As part of its strategy, the government
has set up the Namibia Investment
Centre and has signed agreements with
neighbouring Botswana and Zimbabwe
to acquire dry-port facilities in Walvis Bay,
Namibia’s deep-water port on the Atlantic
Ocean. Angola, Zambia and the Democratic
Republic of Congo are negotiating for similar
arrangements.
Page, speaking on behalf of her superior
Johnnie Carson, assistant secretary of state
for African affairs, said Namibia had a lot to
celebrate on its 20th anniversary.
“Since its separation from apartheid South
Africa in 1990, Namibia has pursued a path
of democracy and free-market economy. It
has distinguished itself from other African
states by having held 10 national, regional
and local elections,” she said, noting that
Namibia is one of the 15 “focus countries”
under the President’s Emergency Plan for
AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). That entitles it to
more than US$100-million annually to help
Namibia “mitigate the suffering of HIV-AIDS
patients.”
In September 2009, the U.S. government’s
Millennium Challenge Corp. signed a
US$304.5-million compact with Namibia
aimed, among other things, at boosting
the quality of education and rectifying the
country’s unequal distribution of income.
“Now that President Hifkepunye Pohamba
has been sworn in for a second term, we
hope he will continue to take a strong
stand against corruption and gender-
based violence,” Page told the assembled
guests. “The United States is seeking to
build mutual trust in addressing the many
challenges Namibia faces, including the fight
against HIV-AIDS and tuberculosis, and the
need to create jobs and reduce poverty.”
Updated version as published
with permission of Larry Luxner in
Diplomat Africa Volume 1
Best of Namibia | 7

Namibia at a Glance
Safe and hospitable, Namibia is a land of mystery and intrigue which captures the
imagination with the beauty and diversity of its age-old landscape.
8 | Best of Namibia

A geologist’s paradise, Namibia is scattered
with fossils and unique minerals, giving
one the feeling of stepping back in time,
to the moment of creation. Namibia was
first inhabited by the ancient Khoi-San
hunter-gatherer clan, who are the oldest
descendents of the first Homo sapiens.
Their early lives are forever captured
in Africa’s largest collection of rock art
paintings in Twyfelfontein. The harshly
beautiful terrain has meant that all creations
have had to adapt and as a result, the flora
and fauna are capable of withstanding harsh
and varying climates. The surreal landscape
of endless ochre coloured sand dunes which
tower over scattered trees and wildlife,
contrasted against the crisp blue hues
of the South Atlantic Ocean – make this
dreamlike country a must on every travellers
list; but more recently finding itself on the
lists of international traders and investors
as a result of stringent growth plans to
sustainably utilise its vast resources.
Full Name: Republic of Namibia
Capital: Windhoek
Motto: Unity, Liberty, Justice
National
Anthem:
Namibia, Land of the Brave
President: Hifikepunye Pohamba
Prime Minister: Nahas Angula
Area: 825,418km2
(318,696 sq mi)
Regions: Caprivi, Erongo, Hardap, Karas,
Khomas, Kunene, Ohangwena,
Okavango, Omaheke, Omusati,
Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa.
Population: 2,108,665 (2009 estimate)
Main Language
spoken:
English
Recognised
National
Languages:
Herero, Rukwangali, Silozi,
Setswana, Damara/Nama,
Afrikaans, German, Oshiwambo
Main Religions: Christianity 90%, Indigenous
10%
Main exports: Diamonds, uranium, zinc, copper,
lead, beef, cattle, fish, karakul
pelts, grapes
Natural
Resources:
Diamonds, uranium, zinc, gold,
copper, lead, tin, fluorspar, salt,
fisheries, and wildlife
Monetary unit: Namibian Dollar (NAD)
The Republic of Namibia is a southern
African country on the South Atlantic Ocean
which shares borders with Angola, Zambia,
Botswana and South Africa. A former
colony of both Britain and Germany and
later under the control of South Africa, the
Namibian War of Independence welcomed
an Independent Namibia born on 21 March
1990.
Best of Namibia | 9

Namibia has relations with many countries
as part of its foreign policy as a member
state of the UN, SADC, the AU and the
Commonwealth of Nations.
The ancient lands are some of the oldest
inhabited lands on earth as they were home
to tribes of San hunter-gatherers.
Namibia has a population of 2.1-million
people and a stable multi-party
parliamentary democracy. Agriculture,
herding, tourism and the mining industry
– including mining for gems, diamonds,
uranium, gold, silver, and base metals – form
the backbone of Namibia’s economy. It is
the second least densely populated country
in the world following Mongolia.
HISTORY
Although the written history of Namibia is
relatively recent, the land itself is steeped
in ancient significance. Considering that
approximately three-quarters of global
human history is unaccounted for, Namibia’s
lands have preserved numerous accounts of
ancients times – through fossils, the Petrified
Forest site, and most notably, through its
famed rock art. Namibia’s archaeological
evidence stretches from about 3-million
years ago and is one of the longest
sequences recognised. As a result, the
majority of Namibian history is unaccounted
for in written works considering that humans
have inhabited these lands for hundreds of
centuries; leaving archaeologists attempting
10 | Best of Namibia

to document as much as possible.
Rock art is possibly the most visible relic
of prehistoric times – specifically in southern
Africa. The art of the Apollo 11 cave in the
Karas region is considered as some of the
earliest art found in Africa, dated to between
25,500 – 23,500 BC. Situated in the Huns
Mountains of south-western Namibia, these
caves were home to seven slabs of rock
depicting animal figures. The spectacular
Brandberg mountain, rising to 1900m above
the surrounding dunes, houses one of the
largest collections of rock art in the world
with over 43,000 paintings at over 1000
sites. Rock art is a major tourist attraction in
Namibia, resulting in the famed Twyfelfontein
site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
receiving over 30,000 visitors a year.
The name of the country is derived from
the Namib Desert, considered to be the
oldest desert in the world. The area was
first known as German South-West Africa
(Deutsch-Südwestafrika), then as South-
West Africa, which highlighted the colonial
occupation of Germany and South Africa –
the latter as a dominion state of the British
Empire – before Namibia’s independence in
1990.
In 1884, the country became a German
Imperial protectorate and remained a
German colony until after World War One.
The League of Nations mandated the
country to South Africa in 1920 and imposed
its laws as well as South Africa’s apartheid
policy from 1948.
Best of Namibia | 11

The UN took direct responsibility over
South-West Africa in 1966 after uprisings
and resistance from African leaders. The
South West Africa People’s Organisation
(SWAPO) was recognised as the official
representative of the Namibian people
in 1973 but stayed under South African
administration. After internal resistance
intensified, South Africa introduced an
interim administration in Namibia in
1985, which lasted until Namibia gained
independence from South Africa in 1990.
Pre-colonial era
The dry lands of Namibia were inhabited
in early times by San hunter-gatherers,
Damara, Nama, and since about the 14th
century AD, by immigrating Bantu who
came with the Bantu expansion from central
Africa. The San are widely considered to
have been the first inhabitants of this land.
In 1485, the first European disembarked
and explored the region, namely Portuguese
navigator Diogo Cão. Bartolomeu Dias
followed in 1486 but yet the Portuguese did
not claim the region.
For centuries the barrier of the Namib
Desert had kept other explorers and
colonisers out, until the late 18th century
onwards when Orlam clans from the Cape
Colony crossed the Orange River and
moved into the area that today is southern
Namibia. Encounters with the nomadic
Nama tribes were mostly peaceful and the
missionaries accompanying the Orlams were
well-received. The right to use waterholes
and grazing lands was granted for an annual
payment. In 1878, the United Kingdom
annexed Walvis Bay on behalf of Cape
Colony. Further northwards however, the
Orlams came across the more resistant
clans of the Herero (Windhoek), Gobabis and
Okahandja. The Nama-Herero War broke out
in 1880 and only ended with the deployment
of troops from Imperial Germany. What
ensued in the early 1900s after the discovery
of diamonds was an atrocious genocide,
wiping out the majority of the Herero clan –
pre-emanating the antics of Nazi Germany.
It should be noted that Germany is now one
of the biggest donors of aid to Namibia, who
have sought to make amends for their fore
bearers’ cruelty.
Namibia remained mostly unexplored
by Europeans until the 19th century when
traders and settlers arrived from Germany
and Sweden. The late 19th century brought
Dorsland trekkers who crossed the area on
their way from the Transvaal in South Africa
to Angola. Some of the trekkers settled in
Namibia instead of continuing their journey
while more returned to the South-West
African territory after the Portuguese in
Angola tried to convert them to Catholicism,
forbidding their language from being taught.
Adolf Luderitz was a German trader
who claimed the rest of the coastal
region in 1883 following negotiations
with a local chief. The southern area was
incorporated into the Cape of Good Hope
in 1884. Negotiations between the United
Kingdom and Germany brought about the

annexation of Germany’s coastal region,
excluding Walvis Bay. In 1885, recognition
of Germany’s sphere of influence for the
eastern areas was given by the United
Kingdom. In 1890, the region that would
later become known as the Caprivi Strip was
merged into South West Africa following
an agreement between Germany and the
United Kingdom. This strip provided access
to the Zambezi River – a crucial access point
to the East African German colonies. The
exchange was that the Germans granted
the British the islands of Zanzibar and
Heligoland.
The fight for independence
South Africa took over the colony when
Germany was defeated in 1915 during
World War One and then administered it
as a League of Nations mandate territory
in 1919. In the 1960s, during the time of
European powers granting independence
to colonies and territories across Africa,
South Africa was pressurised to do so with
Namibia. In response to the 1966 ruling
by the International Court of Justice which
dismissed a complaint against South Africa’s
presence in Namibia, SWAPO military wing
and guerrilla group People’s Liberation Army
of Namibia began their armed struggle for
independence, but it was not until 1988
that South Africa agreed to withdraw
and demobilise its forces thus ending its
occupation of Namibia, in accordance with a
UN peace plan for the entire region.
The President His Excellency Hifikepunye Pohamba

With the military withdrawals, came the
return of SWAPO exiles and in October
1989, the first-ever one-person one-vote
elections were held for a constituent
assembly. This was won by SWAPO
although it did not gain the two-thirds
majority it had hoped for – the Democratic
Turnhalle Alliance (DTA) became the official
opposition.
Sam Nujoma was sworn in as the first
President when Namibia became officially
independent on 21 March 1990 which
saw newly released Nelson Mandela as an
observer, along with representatives from
147 countries including 20 heads of state.
Walvis Bay was ceded to Namibia in 1994
upon the end of Apartheid in South Africa.
Post independence
Namibia successfully transitioned from
the apartheid rule of a white minority to
a parliamentary democracy. Regional
and National elections are regularly held
and thus multiparty democracy has been
maintained. There are several registered
political parties active and represented in the
National Assembly. Since independence, the
SWAPO Party has won every election which
has seen a smooth transition from Sam
Nujoma’s 15-year rule to the succession of
President Hifikepunye Pohamba in 2005.
Namibian government has endorsed
national reconciliation policy which issued
amnesty to those who fought on either side
during the war of liberation.

GOVERNMENT
Namibia is a presidential representative
democratic republic, with the president
being elected to a five-year term as both the
head of state and the head of government.
Executive power lies with the Cabinet
while the legislative rests with Parliament,
which is bicameral, the National Assembly
and the National Council. The judiciary is
independent. Constant scrutiny is given to
Namibia’s management of the rule of law
and the observance of basic human rights.
Branches:
Executive President, Prime Minister
Legislative:
Bicameral
Parliament:
National Assembly and National Council
Judicial:
Supreme Court, the High Court, and lower courts
Sub-divisions:
13 administrative regions
Registered political parties:
SWAPO, Democratic Turnhalle Alliance (DTA),
United Democratic Front of Namibia (UDF),
Congress of Democrats (COD), Republican Party
(RP),
National Unity Democratic Organisation (NUDO),
Monitor Action Group (MAG), Rally for Democracy
and Progress (RDP), South West African National
Union (SWANU), All People’s Party (APP),
Democratic Party of Namibia (DPN), Namibia
Democratic Movement for Change (NDMC)
Suffrage:
Universal adult
The Capital
Windhoek lies in a basin between the
Khomas Highland, Auas and Eros Mountains
at 1,680 metres above sea level, 650km
north of the Orange River and 360km from
the Atlantic seaboard. The City is perfectly
situated at the epicentre of Namibia,
making it the ideal capital with obvious
trade and administration benefits due to
its accessibility. The effect on tourism is
also notable as it is the focal point for the
beginning of any journey and the main entry
point to exploring the country by air or road.
Windhoek has a population of about
300,000 which makes it a very small capital
by worldwide standards. The city centre is
astonishingly clean and generally safe.
Windhoek is home to Namibia’s brewing
industry, and it isn’t difficult to find a cold
beer. There are also a number of private
hospitals, a state-run hospital, doctors’
surgeries, banks, (with 24hr ATMs)
pharmacies, supermarkets, bakeries, and
clothing stores. Maerua Mall is a large
shopping centre which has a gym and
indoor swimming pool. There is also the
smaller Post Street Mall at the Town Square
as well as at Wernhill Park. There are also
two industrial areas: Northern and Southern.
Namibia’s progress since Independence is
evident in Windhoek through the presence
of new offices and expanding building and
commerce industries.
Windhoek is the social, economic, and
cultural centre of the country. Most national
enterprises have their headquarters in
Windhoek, as well as The University of
Namibia and the Polytechnic of Namibia,
the country’s only theatre, all ministry head
offices, and all major media and financial
entities.
THE LAND
At 825,418 km2 (318,696 sq mi), Namibia is
the world’s thirty-fourth largest country (after
Venezuela). It lies mostly between latitudes
17° and 29°S (a small area is north of 17°),
and longitudes 11° and 26°E.
Administrative division
Namibia is divided into 13 regions and
sub-divided into 107 constituencies. The
administrative division of Namibia is tabled
by Delimitation Commissions and accepted
or declined by the National Assembly.
Since state foundation three Delimitation
Commissions have been formed, the last

one in 2002 under the chairmanship of
Judge Peter Shivute. Regional councillors
are directly elected through secret ballots
(regional elections) by the inhabitants of their
constituencies.
Geographical areas
The Namibian landscape consists generally
of five geographical areas, each with
characteristic abiotic conditions and
vegetation with some variation within and
overlap between them: the Central Plateau,
the Namib Desert, the Great Escarpment,
the Bushveld, and the Kalahari Desert. With
Namibia’s tiny population, statistically one
could only come across two people every
square kilometre. The dramatic physical
features of this astounding country draw
visitors from all over the globe. Below are
some of the most notable:
Central Plateau
The wide and flat Central Plateau is
home to Namibia’s highest point, the
Königstein elevation at 2,606 metres,
which runs from north to south and is
bordered by the Skeleton Coast to the
northwest, the Namib Desert and its coastal
plains to the southwest, the Orange River
to the south, and the Kalahari Desert to
the east. The Central Plateau holds most
of Namibia’s population and economy as
Windhoek and the most arable land are
located here.

Namib Desert
Considered to be the oldest desert in the
world, the Namib Desert consists of an
expanse of hyper-arid gravel plains and
dunes that stretch along the entire coastline
of Namibia. Due to its constant shapeshifting
nature, the size of the desert varies between
100 to several hundred kilometres in width.
Notable areas include the Skeleton Coast
and the Kaokoveld in the north and the
extensive Namib Sand Sea along the central
coast. The sand sea is made up from
processes of erosion that take place in the
Orange River valley and areas further to the
south. Masses of sand are carried by rivers
to the Atlantic where strong currents deposit
them along the shore. The sands are picked
up by a prevailing south west wind and re-
deposited into massive dunes forming the
widespread sand sea, which becomes the
highest sand dunes in the world.
In other areas, strong winds pummel the
land to form large gravel plains in place
of the sand. There is little vegetation in
most areas of the Namib Desert apart from
lichens in places where plants can reach
underground water such as in the gravel
plains and dry river beds.
Known as the living fossil, the Weltwischia
plant is only found in the Namib desert, with
some individual plants said to be nearly
2000 years old.
Coastal Desert
The coastal desert of Namibia is one of the
oldest and highest in the world. As part of
the sand sea, its sand dunes are created by
the strong onshore winds. The Namib Desert
and the Namib-Naukluft National Park are
located here. It is also one of the richest
sources of diamonds in the world and is
made up of the Skeleton Coast in the north
and the Diamond Coast in the south. There
is often thick fog, as a result of the situation
on the point where the Atlantic’s cold water
reaches Africa. Namibia has rich coastal
and marine resources that remain largely
unexplored.
Great Escarpment
The Great Escarpment rises swiftly to over
2,000 metres and sees temperature ranges
increasing further inland from the cold
Atlantic waters with the prevalence of the
coastal fogs diminishing slowly inwards. The
area is rocky and although it has poor soils,
it is greatly more productive than the Namib
Desert.
Moisture is extracted from the summer
winds which push over the Escarpment.
This unique precipitation together with
the varying topography, are responsible
for the microhabitats of a wide range of
endemic organisms. The varying vegetation
ranges from dense woodland to shrubs and
scattered trees.
Bushveld
The Bushveld lies in north eastern Namibia
along the Angolan border and in the narrow
corridor of the Caprivi Strip which has
access to the Zambezi River, and is part of

the KAZA Transfrontier Conservation area.
The area receives much more precipitation
than the rest of the country, with an average
of 400mm per year. It is also cooler with
approximate seasonal variations of between
10 and 30 °C. The area is mostly flat with
sandy soils, which limits their water retaining
ability.
The Etosha Pan in north-central Namibia
lies adjacent to the Bushveld and is one
of the most spectacular natural features.
The Pan transforms from a dry-wasteland
to a shallow lake which covers over 6,000
square kilometres in the wet season. It is an
ecologically important area as it is vital to
large numbers of birds and animals which
gather from the surrounding savannah.
The Bushveld area is demarcated as part
of the Angolan Mopane woodlands eco-
region.
Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari Desert, shared with South
Africa and Botswana, is widely regarded as
Namibia’s best known geographical feature.
Its environments range from hyper-arid
sandy desert to areas which are outside of
the definition of a common desert, such as
the Succulent Karoo which is home to over
5,000 species of plants. Almost half of these

succulents are endemic; and one third of
the succulents in the world are found in the
Karoo.
The productivity of this desert is as a
result of its stable precipitation and therefore
does not receive droughts regularly. The
area is technically a desert but it receives
regular winter rains which provide sufficient
moisture. Some of the main features of
the Kalahari are inselbergs, or isolated
mountains, which house organisms which
aren’t adapted to life in the surrounding
desert system.
Weather and climate
Namibia has over 300 days of sunshine
per year as a result of being situated at the
southern edge of the tropics – the Tropic of
Capricorn cuts directly through the middle
of the country. Winter is from June to August
and is mostly dry while the rainy season is
in summer (the small rains occur between
September and November, and the big one
between February and April). There is low
humidity and the average rainfall ranges
from nearly zero in the coastal desert to over
600mm in the Caprivi Strip, although rainfall
is variable with regular droughts.
The coastal area is dominated by the

cold, north-flowing Benguela current of
the Atlantic Ocean, accounting for the
low precipitation of less than 50mm per
year, frequent thick fog, as well as lower
temperatures than in the rest of the country
overall. Sometimes winter brings a condition
called Bergwind or Oosweer (Afrikaans:
East weather) which is a hot dry wind which
blows from inland coastward. These winds
can form sand storms due to the locality of
the coastal desert. Sand is deposited into
the Atlantic Ocean and these deposits can
be seen by satellite.
The Central Plateau and Kalahari areas
have high temperature ranges of up to 30°C.

THE PEOPLE
Culture
Namibia is a rich and diverse melting pot of
different cultures, which speak of its varying
history. The country has the second-lowest
population density of any sovereign country,
after Mongolia, with the majority being black
African – mostly of the Ovambo ethnicity.
Ovambo people form about half of the total
population. Most reside in the north of the
country, although many are now moving
to towns throughout Namibia in a period
of urbanisation. The Herero and Himba
people, who speak a similar language, and
the Damara, who speak the same “click”
language as the Nama, are other ethnic
Bantu groups of Namibia.
There are also large groups of
Khoisan, including the Nama, who are

descendants of the original inhabitants of
southern Africa. The country is also home to
descendants of refugees from Angola. There
are two smaller groups of people with mixed
racial origins, who together make up 6.5%.
The population is made up of 7% of white
people of Portuguese, Dutch, German,
British and French ancestry, and most speak
Afrikaans.
Around 9% of the population is made up
of the Kavango ethnic group. Other ethnic
groups are: Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama
5%, Caprivian 4%, San 3%, Baster 2%, and
Tswana 0.5%.
Languages
Namibia’s official language is English and
until 1990, German and Afrikaans were also
official languages. However, SWAPO had
decided that Namibia should be monolingual
before independence, in direct contrast to
South Africa.
Some of the other languages received
semi-official recognition and as a result are
allowed as medium of instruction in primary
schools.
Half of all Namibians speak Oshiwambo
as their first language, whereas the most
widely understood language is Afrikaans.
The transition is evident in the younger
generation who understand English more
widely and both Afrikaans and English
are used as a second language in public
communication.
The majority of the white population speak
German or Afrikaans.

Religion
Christianity is practiced by more than
90% of the population in Namibia as a
result of the missionary work of the 1800s.
Indigenous beliefs make up the remainder.
Most Namibian Christians are Lutheran,
but there are also Roman Catholic,
Methodist, Anglican, African Methodist
Episcopal, Dutch Reformed Christians and
Mormon (Latter-Day Saints) represented, as
well as some Jewish people.
Education
The education system in Namibia is
commendable. The country has compulsory
free education for 10 years per child
between the ages of six and 16. Primary
level is from Grades 1–7 and Secondary
level is from grades 8–12. Increasing
numbers of children are attending schools;
however there has been a shortage of
teachers. The pupil-teacher ratio in 1999
was estimated at 32:1, with about 8% of the
GDP being spent on education. According
to UNICEF, Primary school attendance was
89% between the years 2005 and 2009 and
the adult literacy rate was 88% between the
years 2005 and 2008.
Most schools in Namibia are state-run,
but there are also a few private schools on
the country’s education system (St. Paul’s
College, Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool,
Deutsche Höhere Privatschule, Windhoek
International School and Windhoek
Gymnasium). The National Institute for
Educational Development (NIED) based

in Okahandja, now organises curriculum
development, educational research, and the
professional development of teachers.
The problem of teacher shortage is
being dealt with through the introduction
of four teacher training colleges. There are
also three agricultural colleges, a police
training college, Polytechnic, and a National
University.
ECONOMY
The Namibian economy has a modern
market sector (which creates the majority of
the country’s wealth) as well as a traditional
subsistence sector. The economy is closely
linked to South Africa’s as a result of their
shared past. The largest economic sectors
are mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and
tourism.
The banking sector is highly developed
and boasts modern infrastructure, including
Online Banking and Cell phone Banking. The
central bank is The Bank of Namibia
(BoN). There are four commercial banks
authorised by BoN: Bank Windhoek, First
National Bank, Nedbank and Standard
Bank.
There are several legislative policies in
place to alleviate poverty and the high
unemployment rate. Such as the labour
act which protects employees from job
discrimination arising from pregnancy
and HIV/AIDS. The Government tender
board announced in 2010 that 100% of all
unskilled and semi-skilled labour would be
sourced locally.
Namibia’s formal economy is
sophisticated in that it is highly capital-
intensive and farming focused. It relies on
export profits in sectors such as minerals,
livestock, and fish. The majority of the
country’s imports come from South Africa.
A free-market economy has been
actively pursued by the government since
independence. The hope is that these
principles will aid job creation and commerce
growth and thus allow Namibians access
to the mainstream economy. This has been
done through the courting of foreign donors
and investors with a nudge from the liberal
Foreign Investment Act of 1990.
The economy is actively integrated in
the region and is supported through a
number of trade partnerships. As part of the
Common Monetary Area (CMA), Namibia
is partnered with Lesotho, Swaziland, and
South Africa. As a result, the South African
rand and the Namibian dollar are legal
tender in Namibia
Considering the minimal domestic
market, Namibia is located favourably in
the region as a transport base. Together
with the strong communications base,
Namibia is at the forefront of advocating
economic regional integration. Other
partnerships include membership in the
Southern African Development Community
(SADC), and the Southern African Customs
Union (SACU) with South Africa, Botswana,
Lesotho, and Swaziland – and allows for
tariff free movement of goods. Located in
Windhoek, SACU has a Trade, Investment
and Development Co-operation Agreement
(TIDCA) with the United States, and also
is negotiating free trade agreements with
China, India, Kenya, and Nigeria.
Namibia aims to move away from its
reliance on South Africa and to diversify
imports and trade. Namibia supplies a large
portion of fish and meat to Europe, and
has also purchased mining machines and
equipment in concessions from the UK,
Germany, Italy, the US, as well as Canada.
Economic breakdown:-
• GDP (2009): $9.4-billion (World Bank);
• Annual growth rate (2009): 1% (World
Bank);
• Per capita GNI (2009): $4,338 (World
Bank);
• Average annual inflation rate (2010): 4.5%
(Namibia Central Bureau of Statistics);
• Natural resources: Diamonds, uranium,
zinc, gold, copper, lead, tin, fluorspar, salt,
fisheries, and wildlife;
• Agriculture (2009): 5.1% of GDP (livestock
and meat products, crop farming and
forestry – Namibia Central Bureau of
Statistics);
• Mining (2009): 10% of GDP (Gem-quality
diamonds, uranium, zinc, copper, other –
Namibia Central Bureau of Statistics);
• Fishing and fish processing on board
(2009): 3.6% of GDP (Hake, horse
mackerel, lobster, other – Namibia Central
Bureau of Statistics);
• Trade: Major partners are South Africa,

Angola, European Union (EU), U.S,
Canada, China, and India (WTO);
• Exports (2010): $5.71-billion (diamonds,
uranium, zinc, copper, lead, beef, cattle,
fish, karakul pelts, and grapes);
• Imports (2010): $5.14-billion (foodstuffs,
construction material, manufactured
goods).
Mining
Mining provides Namibia with 35% of its
revenue and is the biggest economical
contributor. The country is also the fourth
largest exporter of non-fuel minerals in
Africa. Namibia is renowned as a primary
source of gem-quality diamonds from its
rich alluvial deposits, which gave birth to
Namdeb (jointly owned by the Namibian
government and De Beers who have
recently sold to ANGLO American). The dip
in Diamond mining pre-2010 has rebounded,
with nearly 1.5-million carats being
recovered in 2010.
Namibia holds around 10% of uranium
oxide production world-wide and as a
result is the world’s fourth-largest producer
of uranium with two uranium mines in
operation. There are plans to open two
or three new uranium mines in the next
five years, which would essentially double
production, putting it on track to become
the largest exporter by 2015.
The other main mineral resources are
zinc, copper, lead, gold, fluorspar, salt,
manganese, tungsten, tin, granite and

marble, with semiprecious stones mined on
a smaller scale. Extraction of offshore gas
deposits in the Atlantic Ocean is planned in
the future.
Electricity generation mainly comes from
thermal and hydroelectric plants, as well as
a small mix of non-conventional methods.
The country plans to build the first nuclear
power station by 2018 as a result of the rich
uranium deposits with uranium enrichment
planned to happen locally.
In 1974, natural gas was discovered
near the mouth of the Orange River
and is thought to hold over 1.3trillion cubic
feet in reserves. Known as the Kudu Fields,
the government changed the ownership
structure in 2009. Namibia leased large
areas for oil prospecting in the years after
independence. These areas included
onshore and offshore. There are currently
around eight companies searching for oil
and gas in Namibia. With a well-developed
framework and legislature in place, Namibia
will be able to continue governing the oil
business accordingly.
Agriculture
Half of the Namibian population is
dependent on agriculture for employment
and subsistence for their livelihood, even
though only 1% of Namibian land is arable.
Some of the food produced is still imported,
such as meat and fish products. The GDP
per capita is five times that of the poorest
countries in Africa but most Namibians
live in rural areas and live on subsistence
farming, mostly in the communal lands
of the north. This has resulted in Namibia
having a very high income inequality rate as
the urban economy contrasts directly with
an almost cash-less rural economy.
Several enterprises are to be privatised
in coming years in the hope that interested
foreign investment will be generated.
Wildlife conservation is one of the fastest
growing areas of economic development in
Namibia and is vital for the unemployed rural
population in particular.
Livestock ranching is the primary
agricultural sector in Namibia including
cattle, karakul sheep and goat farming.
Main crops include millet, sorghum, corn,
and peanuts. Table grapes are a crop of
growing importance as they have become
commercially viable and provide seasonal
labour.
Fishing
Namibia’s coastline is met by the South
Atlantic Sea and as a result of its clean
and cold waters is one of the most
abundant fishing grounds in the world.
The potential sustainable yields are up to
1.5-million metric tons per year. Sardines,
anchovy, hake, and horse mackerel are
the main species but there are also smaller
numbers of sole, squid, deep-sea crab,
rock lobster, and tuna. The Namibian
Government is pursuing a conservative
resource management policy along with an

aggressive fisheries enforcement campaign,
which has seen an increase in fish stocks.
Namibia is a signatory of the Convention on
Conservation and Management of Fisheries
Resources in the South-East Atlantic (Seafo
Convention) and part of the Benguela
Current Large Marine Ecosystem (BCLME)
program, which sustainably manages the
shared marine resources of Namibia, Angola
and South Africa.
Trade and Investment
Namibia may seem to be a remote country,
but has seaports, airports, highways, and
railways. The country aims to become a
regional transportation hub as it is perfectly
positioned with a key seaport and several
landlocked neighbours. The Central Plateau
is a major transportation corridor to South
Africa.
TOURISM
One of Namibia’s major contributors to GDP
is tourism (14.5%) and in turn, it accounts
for 18.2% of all employment through serving
over one-million tourists a year. As one
of Africa’s prime destinations, Namibia is
renowned for its ecotourism and extensive
wildlife.
There are a number of lodges and
reserves which accommodate eco-tourists;
while the sport of hunting is a growing
part of the economy. Extreme sports have
gained popularity, such as sand boarding
and 4x4 trails. The most popular tourist

destinations include the Caprivi Strip, Fish
River Canyon, Sossusvlei, the Skeleton
Coast Park, Sesriem, Etosha Pan and the
coastal towns of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay
and Lüderitz.
Wildlife and Conservation
Namibia is at the forefront of conservation
and specifically protects its natural
resources in its constitution, which is aimed
at: “maintenance of ecosystems, essential
ecological processes, and biological
diversity of Namibia, and utilisation of living
natural resources on a sustainable basis for
the benefit of all Namibians, both present
and future.”
Directly after independence, the United
States Agency for International Development
(USAID) granted funds to the newly formed
government of Namibia through the Living
in a Finite Environment (LIFE) Project.
The Ministry of Environment and Tourism,
Endangered Wildlife Trust, WWF, and
Canadian Ambassador’s Fund, together
form a Community Based Natural Resource
Management (CBNRM) support structure,
whose goal is to promote sustainable natural
resource management through empowering
local communities with wildlife management
and tourism.
The Skeleton Coast
Even the name of the Namibian desert
coastline stirs feelings of adventure –
it’s an extremely remote and formidable

place. The Namib Desert is one of the
world’s most arid and inhospitable places.
What makes the Skeleton Coast unique is
the vast sand dunes which at times engulf
the coastline, wreaking havoc with the
shipping lanes.
The shifting dunes advance to the ocean
and to the human eye, they appear to
find their resting place at the edge of the
sea. This however, is not the case, as the
dunes continue underwater. This undersea
topography is the cause of the numerous
ship wrecks which litter the coastline. The
dunes form hidden shallow sand-banks
which prove deadly to ships – the haunting
reminder is seen in their corpses. The
surrealism of this vast graveyard is also
noted in the wrecks of ships that would
once have settled in shallow water, only to
now be surrounded by an ocean of sand
far from shore. Many more remain unseen
indefinitely.
There was very seldom light at the end
of the tunnel for wrecked ships, as even
after surviving the wreck, crews would be
met with the ominous image of the endless
desert. This coastline has been given many
names over the centuries. Some locals refer
to it as “the land God made in anger”, while
Portuguese sailors called it “As Areias do
Inferno” which means Sands of Hell.
The best way for visitors to explore the
Skeleton Coast is by air. Not only is the
birds’-eye-view the only way to get the
entire picture of this vast expanse, but there

are also very few roads. There are small
planes available to do the job and a number
of isolated landing strips dotted all the way
down the coastline.
Sossusvlei
The sand dunes of Namibia are one of its
greatest attractions, and Sossusvlei is the
place to view them. Their endless colour
seems unreal. Namibia is one of the most
ancient and dry ecosystems on the planet.
Its remote appeal gives one the feeling of
being the only person on earth – the first and
final frontier.
The ‘bizarre’ factor is enhanced by the
mysterious song of the dunes, which seem
to whistle in the wind. When climbing dunes,
the view can be breathtaking – a landscape
of curving sand from horizon-to-horizon. The
mesmerising fluidity of the dunes in the wind
gives the impression that the desert is alive.
Fish River Canyon
The Fish River carves a magnificent canyon
through the Namibian landscape and is in
actual fact the second largest canyon in the
world and the largest in Africa, at 160km
long, 550m deep and up to 27km wide. It
has a lunar-like appearance which cannot be
witnessed anywhere else in Africa and as a
result, is the second most visited attraction
in Namibia. Formed around 500-million
years ago, the canyon lies on a fault line
which has added to its formation (along with
the erosion of the winding waters of the Fish
River) through movements in the earth’s
crust causing the collapse of the bottom of
the valley.
Luderitz
Luderitz is one of the main towns in Namibia
but is isolated on the southern coastline –
with a vast expanse of the skeleton coast
on either side. German colonial architecture
dominates the town creating a curious
contrast as the charming and quaint German
houses seem as if they have been misplaced
along the seemingly inhabitable coastline.
Kolmanskop
Kolmanskop is a few kilometres outside of
Luderitz on the remote coast. This ghost
town was once home to a small diamond-
mining community of Germans. As a
result, it was built in 1908 to resemble a
German village. After the diamond bust
of the 1950s, the town was abandoned.
The town is slowly being swallowed up by
the encroaching sand and will someday
disappear altogether – for that reason alone,
it is well worth the visit.
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is one of the largest
and greatest savannah conservation areas in
Africa. It covers a massive area and currently
protects 114 mammal species and over 340
bird species. The vast majority of Etosha
is one large saltpan that forms a shallow
lake during the rainy season. As a result, it

becomes a haven for animals that travel from
far and wide to quench their thirst after the
long dry months.
Mesosaurus tenuidens fossils
These fossils, discovered at the Spitzkoppe
Farm in Namibia in 1988, cemented the
theory of continental drift and highlighted
the fact that Namibia was once joined to
Brazil as part of the ‘super continent’. This
collection of fossils of the shore-dwelling
ancient lizards is the most beautifully
preserved in the world. However, their
shoreline was not that of the South Atlantic
Ocean as it is today, but rather an ancient
super lake known as Lake Gai-As. As part
of Gondwana land, this great lake was an
inland lake separating today’s Namibia from
what would become Brazil; signifying that
the sea of sand of the Namib Desert was
once a massive body of water surrounded
by sub-tropical climate species. Similarly
fascinating fossils can be found throughout
Namibia at various locations, and together
with its bounty of gemstones, semi-precious
stones, and intriguing rock formations –
Namibia is truly a geologist’s paradise.
Fast facts Namibia
• ‘The White Lady’ is Namibia’s, and
possibly Africa’s, most famous rock art
painting. Found at Brandberg Mountain,
it actually depicts a male hunter-gatherer
wearing the white paint of a San Shaman
or ‘medicine man’. Guided walks are
offered to visit the site, as well as the

Schlangenhöle site which houses the
impressive ancient painting of a seven
metre long snake.
• Keetmanshoop, in the Karas region of
Namibia, is officially the sunniest town
in the world and is home to the popular
Quiver Tree forests.
• The mysterious Wild Horses of the eastern
fringe of the Namib Desert have long
been the subject of debate and intrigue.
Although it is agreed that these feral
horses have domesticated ancestors,
it is unclear how they broke free and
where they came from. Theories include
the wrecking of a ship of cargo horses
on the Skeleton Coast in the late 1800s,
horse studs neglected in the war, horses
abandoned during the depression or
during the increase of the automobile
industry, and retreating Germans forced to
abandon their cavalry. The large number
of the horses indicates that it was likely a
combination of several theories. Whatever
the case these fascinating creatures have
managed to adapt and survive extremely
harsh terrain and are a beautiful sight.
• The unique desert elephants of Namibia
are a conservation priority. Found in the
Kunene Region in the north-west which
encompasses 115,154km² of semi-arid
sandy desert, rocky mountains and
gravel plains. They have a smaller body
mass, longer legs and larger feet than the
savannah elephants, which has helped
them adapt to their dry environment.
These smaller physical attributes help
them cross the miles of sand in search of
water. There is only one other population
of desert elephants in the world.
• The ‘Forbidden Zone’ along the Skeleton
Coast was once blocked to visitors
as a result of the numerous diamonds
scattered across the sand. The hidden
treasure under the sand has been
rigorously protected since early 1908,
when a railway worker picked up the first
diamond. Known as Diamond Zone 1,
or Sperrgebiet – German for ‘Forbidden
Zone’, this 26,000 square kilometre mining
zone has only had around 10% of the
area sufficiently mined and 1.3-million
carats are mined annually – with the rest
roped off to any civilian. However in 2008,
the Sperrgebiet was declared a national
park by the Namibian government with its
terrain covering 17 offshore ‘islands’. As
a result of the immense preservation, the
unique and endemic flora and fauna has
remained untouched.
Sources:
en.wikipedia.org
www.state.gov
www.namibiatourism.com.za

Namibian Infrastructure
Namibia’s infrastructure is some of the best on the African continent and is also currently
seeing a number of upgrades and expansions to its harbours, airports, railways and
roads.

Once complete, the Namibian government
hopes to make the country an economic
hub in Africa with facilitating trade between
the continent and Europe. It is foreseen that
an increased mutual flow of trade between
SADC countries and Namibia will take root
in the years to come. The development
of Namibian infrastructure is vital to the
country’s trade status. Namibia also boasts
highly developed energy and water network
infrastructure as well as advanced postal
and telecommunications systems.
Shipping
The main export outlet, Walvis Bay port,
one of two in Namibia and the only deep-
water port, has seen a great increase in
trade recently and is packed to capacity as
a result. It handles over five-million tonnes
of cargo per year and over 20 percent of
that is containerised. One mitigating factor
was the closure of Luanda’s port in Angola,
which began repairs. Walvis Bay is one of
the preferred entries in the SADC region due
to its accessibility to neighbouring countries
and lowered transport time. From port entry,
containers are transported by the three
arteries, Namibia’s Trans-Kalahari, Trans-
Caprivi and Trans-Kunene Highways, to
Botswana and South Africa. Walvis Bay also
has the main concentration of the country’s
fishing infrastructure.
Walvis Bay port is currently under expansion
after Namport announced in 2009 that
they would be spending N$3-billion on the
upgrade. The plan is to deepen the harbour
from 12.8m to 14.5m in order to increase
capacity. A new quay is also under way with
a capacity to handle 500,000 containers
(TEU), as well as a waterfront with shopping
malls and allocation for private beachfront
properties. The project is expected to be
complete in 2016.
Landlocked SADC countries such as
Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia,
have been given the opportunity to lease
land at Walvis Bay for their own dry-port
facilities, which allows for cargo transport
and increased trade throughout the region.
This falls in line with the ideals of a SADC
common market and the free trade area.
Zambia and Botswana have seen the value
in trans-shipment from Namibia as it’s
far shorter. Branches of The Walvis Bay
Corridor Group (WBCG) have opened in
Johannesburg and Lusaka. These market
the regional Trans-Kalahari, Trans-Caprivi
and Trans-Kunene corridors for transport
and logistics.
Lüderitz is Namibia’s second port and has
also seen increased activity as a result of
the rise in the fishing industry. The extensive
upgrade of Lüderitz began after an N$85-
million investment from government, as
part of the Namibian Port Authority four-
year modernisation plan for the two ports
which had a collective budget allocation of
US$77-million. This included the addition of
quays for larger ships and cruise ships, as
well as the modernisation of cargo handling
facilities. There is a third harbour planned for
Mowe Bay, which is north of Walvis Bay, and
would serve the fishing fleet.
This major infrastructure expansion is a result of a growing economy due to an influx of
trade in the country.

Air transport
Air transport is vital to Namibia’s economy
and the country boasts world-class civil
aviation facilities, with Air Namibia, a Trans-
Namib subsidiary, as the national carrier.
There are over 135 airports and 22 have
tarred runways. The international airport
is just outside of Windhoek. Coupled with
the upgrade of Walvis Bay, is the upgrade
of Walvis Bay Airport which included the
lengthening and widening of the runway, as
well as the upgrade of air traffic systems and
instrumentation. This provides for large cargo
airplanes as well as commercial airplanes up
to the B737-200 series. Walvis Bay Airport is
one of only a handful of airports in the region
to have specialised landing instrumentation
technology which allow movements in
any weather. There are now direct flights
between Johannesburg, Cape Town and
Walvis Bay on Air Namibia and SA Express.
Major airports also include Lüderitz and
Keetmanshoop which are both equipped
for wide-bodied aircraft. Air Namibia has
domestic scheduled flights to Lüderitz,
Mpacha, Ondangwa, Oranjemund,
Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Windhoek.
International destinations include Cape
Town, Frankfurt, Johannesburg, Luanda,
Maun and Victoria Falls. There is now also a
direct flight between Windhoek and London
Gatwick, connecting in Cape Town and
Johannesburg.
Road transport
Namibia boasts an extensive road
transportation network which is well
maintained. The vast network reaches
over 64,800km. A tarred highway system
of 4,600km connects the majority of the
country’s economic hubs with the SADC
neighbours. The main arteries are the Trans-
Caprivi, Trans-Kalahari and Trans-Kunene
Highways which were long-haul projects
finished at the end of the 1990s and run
through to Botswana and South Africa.
These two roads have elevated Namibia’s
position as a seaport country which is able
to provide sea access to its landlocked
neighbours.
Rail transport
Trans-Namib operates the railways in
Namibia. There has been a recent
extension project of the northern railway
from Tsumeb to the Angolan border. The
German colonial rule established the
2,382km rail network which saw an urgent
upgrade from the middle of the 1990s. Rail
in Namibia transports millions of tonnes
of freight every year and over 100,000
passengers and recent years have seen
more investment and improved services. The
national railway network links throughout
Namibia and to South Africa. There is an
improvement in a new link between Aus and
Lüderitz.

Energy
National energy supplier NamPower is
responsible for generating, transmitting
and supplying a grid network linked to
all major urban areas. Off-grid electricity
and renewable energy is vital to economic
growth. Namibia has always been a net
energy importer and obtains half of its
electricity from South Africa. The large
Namibian mining industry is a major energy
consumer and commercial energy is created
from imported oil and coal. The national
electricity grid is being used to connect
most of the larger population areas. The
Kudu gas field offshore is being drilled
by Shell after exploration found large gas
reserves, making Namibia the next major net
exporter of energy.
Water
Water is a precious resource in Namibia
and NamWater oversees bulk supply to
local authorities. There are a number of
large dams in Namibia which supply surface
water, as well as the abundant source of the
Orange River which is used to supply large
agricultural developments.
Telecommunications
The telecommunications infrastructure in
Namibia is one of the most advanced in
Africa. It provides digital and direct dialling
facilities in communications including
internet, fax, telex, PABX, ISDN and video
conferencing. The two cellular service
providers are MTC and LEO and have a
network reach of most urban centres and
along national roadways. There is one
fixed line provider, TELECOM Namibia. The
WACS landing point is in Swakopmund.
Post
The largest physical infrastructure network
in Namibia is Nampost. Services include
efficient postal services, savings bank
facilities, money transfers, and counter
automation.
Media
The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation
(NBC) provides access to media in Namibia,
national TV, and radio coverage. Namibia
has access to DStv satellite network and
upholds a free press. There are a number
of independent newspapers, radio stations
and a television network. Namibia enjoys
wide coverage of media and wide availability
of media vehicles, such as televisions and
radios.
Banking
There are four major commercial banks
operating in Namibia, including one central
bank, one development bank and Nampost
Bank.
Source: www.namibia.org.za

Towns of Namibia
These are distinguished by the status the Namibian government has given them and are
places with a municipality.

• Gobabis
Gobabis is the regional capital of the
Omaheke Region in eastern Namibia.
Gobabis is on the B6 highway, 200km
down from Windhoek to Botswana.
Because of its relatively close proximity
to the Botswana border at the Buitepos
border post, Gobabis is a vital link
between Namibia and South Africa on the
Trans-Kalahari Highway. When arriving in
the town, visitors are greeted with a large
Brahman Bull statue – an ode to Gobabis’
position in the heart of ‘Cattle Country’.
This was traditionally the home of the
Herero people and the town is on the edge
of the Kalahari Desert.
• Otjiwarongo
Otjiwarongo is the capital of the
Otjozondjupa Region in central-north
Namibia and has a population of 20,000
people. Situated on the Trans-Namib
railway – linking to Windhoek, the
Golden Triangle of Otavi, Tsumeb and
Grootfontein, and Etosha National Park –
Otjiwarongo is the biggest business
centre in the region. It is a neat town with
a peaceful environment, yet is also one of
the fastest growing towns in the country. It
has a number of excellent facilities such as
supermarkets, banks, lodges and hotels,
and a golf course. Many of the country’s
most popular game farms and reserves
can be found around Otjiwarongo. There
is a large population of German speaking
residents and the influence can be seen in
the Germanic style of the architecture.
• Swakopmund
Swakopmund is the capital of Erongo
on the coast of north-western Namibia
and is 280km west of Windhoek on the
Trans-Namib Highway. This is a seaside
resort town which is a popular destination
in the cooler summer months between
December and January. There is a
population of 42,000 inhabitants covering
193 sq km of land.

Swakopmund was established in
1892 as German South-West Africa’s
main harbour, which is still evident in
the large portion of German-speaking
people and abundance of German colonial
architecture.
It is home to Swakopmund Airport and
includes attractions such as Swakopmund
Museum, the National Marine Aquarium, a
crystal gallery and the Rossmund Desert
Golf Course just outside the city – one of
only five all-grass desert golf courses in
the world. The sand dunes nearby are one
of the reasons why Swakopmund is known
as the adventure capital of Namibia,
with its vast array of extreme sports.
Abandoned in the desert lies the 1896
steam train called the Martin Luther.
• Tsumeb
Tsumeb is the biggest town in Oshikoto
in northern Namibia and has a population
of 15,000 people. It is most known for the
Tsumeb mine which is world renowned.
Tsumeb serves at the gateway to the
north of Namibia and is Etosha National
Park’s closest town. Lake Otjikoto and
Lake Guinas are two large sinkholes
near the town. The famous sinkholes
were the focus of a pioneer documentary
made in the early 1970s which followed
exploratory scuba dives. The exact depths
are unknown as the bottom seems to
disappear into underground cave systems.
Lake Guinas has even evolved a unique
fish species, testament to its age old
existence. On retreat of the South African
invasion, the German forces discarded
all their weapons into Lake Otjikoto in
1914. What could be recovered is now on
display in museums.
Harasib farm to the east of
Tsumeb has one of the world’s deepest
underground lakes and can only be
reached by abseiling down the sheer
dolomite wall. It is uncertain how deep
the clear water goes as divers have only
managed 80 metres. Near Tsumeb is the
Hoba nickel-iron meteorite – the largest in
the world weighing about 60 tonnes.
• Walvis Bay
Walvis Bay has a population of 85,000
people on 29 sq km of land in the Kuiseb
River Delta. The natural deepwater
harbour has protected numerous sea
vessels from the extreme conditions of
the South Atlantic Ocean and is the only
natural harbour in the country, enclosed
by the protective arm of Pelican Point. The
name means “Whale Bay” named after
the large numbers of whales attracted by
the rich marine life. Since its discovery
as a valuable point en route to the
Cape of Good Hope, numerous powers
have sought political control, seeing
successive colonisers playing a role in its
development. The town is at the end of
the Trans-Namib Railway to Windhoek.
Walvis Bay is the tourist activity capital of
Namibia, largely as a result of the beautiful
bay, man-made Bird Island, and numerous

sand dunes. There is a museum and
Kuisebmund Stadium. An important arm
of the local economy is the Walvis Bay
Export Processing Zone.
• Windhoek The Capital City of Namibia
Windhoek is not only the capital, but also
the largest city in Namibia, as well as the
social, economic and cultural centre. It sits
1,700m above sea level on the Khomas
Highland Plateau in central Namibia with
a population of around 300,000. Almost
all national enterprises are housed here
as well as the University of Namibia and
the national theatre. The headquarters of
all ministry offices, media and financial
groups are in Windhoek.
Other towns include:-
• Grootfontein: in the Otjozondjupa Region
• Henties Bay: main holiday destination
• Karasburg: sheep farming industry
• Keetmanshoop: on the Trans-Namib
Railway
• Mariental: near Hardap Dam (largest
reservoir in Namibia)
• Okahandja: Garden Town of Namibia
founded by Herero and Nama
• Omaruru: annual Herero festival; winery;
dinosaur footprints at Otjihenamaparero.
• Outjo: Gateway to Etosha National Park
• Usakos: longest horizon in the world and
closest town to Spitzkoppe (“Matterhorn
of Namibia”).
Source: www.namibiatourism.com.na

Namibian Arts and Crafts
Namibia is a melting pot of various ancient tribes and as a result, traditional practices of
arts and crafts have been passed down for generations.

Namibia has become renowned for its vast
array of traditional crafts, ranging from
basketry, pottery, textiles, painting and
sculpture to working with wood, leather and
beads. However, the modern art movement
has had an influence on jewellery designs
and ushered in the graffiti movement. The
Namibia Craft Centre has the whole range
of traditional crafts under one roof with over
25 stalls as well as the Omba Art Gallery.
However, throughout Namibia there are
street markets and curios vendors. These
celebrated crafts make the perfect keepsake
for travellers and visitors to Namibia.
Baskets
The mostly feminine art of basketry is
more typical of the northern tribes such
as the Caprivi, Himba, Herero, Kavango
and Owambo. The most common form of
basketry is from weaving strips of Makalani
palm leaves. These can be manipulated
into various forms for varying utilities. For
example, winnowing baskets are made out
of flat shapes, carrier baskets are created
from large bowl-shapes, and storage
baskets crafted in small bottle shapes
with lids. The varying shapes created
in the weaving are achieved by using
different colours of leaves which can be
dyed dark brown, purple and yellow. The
various geometric shapes are symbolically
significant. A more modern addition has
seen strips of recycled plastic being used.
Woodcarvings
Woodcarving is most often the craft of
men in Namibia. Their tools are adzes,
axes and knives. Decorative designs are
created by carving, incising, and burning
techniques. Wood products include
headrests, instruments such as drums and
thumb pianos, masks, walking-sticks, toys,
figurines, bows, arrows, quivers, bowls,

utensils, and furniture. The tradition of wood
carving is seen extensively in the northern
tribes of San, Caprivians, Damara, Himba,
Kavango and Owambo.
Leatherworks
Leatherwork is widely practised in Namibia
and makes use of hides from cattle, sheep
and game which are tanned and dyed with
plant materials, animal fat or red ochre.
Leather products include skins, bags,
pouches, and karosses (mats or blankets).
Clothing includes head-dresses, girdles,
aprons, sandals, shoes, boots, handbags,
belts and jackets.
Beadworks
The San and Himba people lead the way
when it comes to beadwork in Namibia.
Beads are created from ostrich eggshells,
porcupine quills, seeds, nuts, branches, iron,
shells, as well as commercial glass. Men
generally create the actual beads while the
women string them into their final pieces.
These pieces include necklaces, bracelets,
ankle bracelets and Alice bands. Beads
are traditionally used by the San on their
leatherwork bags, pouches and clothing as
decoration, while the Himba traditionally use
the iron-bead for leather head ornaments for
women and belts worn by mothers.
Jewellery
The Namibia landscape and natural heritage
has inspired endless unique jewellery
designs. Namibian jewellery is created from
natural materials sourced locally, including
precious stones, gems, diamonds, wood,
seed pods and shells. Materials are also
sometimes sourced from elsewhere on the
African continent, such as gold, silver and
other mineral stones. Unique pieces are
crafted into bracelets, necklaces, headwear,
and ankle bracelets.
Pottery
Typically a female dominated art, pottery is
widely from the people of Caprivi, Kavango
and Owambo. The differing shapes of pottery
determine the utility of the vessels, which are
traditionally decorated with various colours
of geometric patterns. A modern movement
has seen potters experimenting with textual
decoration and varying motifs.
Textiles
Traditionally, a patchwork style was adapted
by the women of the Nama tribe in making
clothing. This has since expanded into
embroidering table and bed linen, cushion
covers and wall-hangings depicting scenes
of Namibian life. A newer craft is weaving
karakul wool into patterns or landscape

images. These are used to create wall-
hangings and mats.
Paintings, sculptures and prints
The urban areas of Namibia have a number
of galleries which feature contemporary
Namibian artwork from painters, sculptors
and printers. The National Art Gallery of
Namibia is the biggest and exhibits more
than 560 artworks dating from 1864 to
today. Early paintings depict landscapes
and wild animals as well as the exhibition
of the winning works of the Standard Bank
Biennale. High-quality works can be found
at many roadside markets throughout
Namibia.
Graffiti
Although steeped in tradition, Namibia’s
arts and crafts movement has opened up to
modern forms. One such instance is seen in
the graffiti movement and culture. It is slowly
moving away from its vandalism tag and
becoming embraced as an art movement
which can convey effective beautiful
messages. Marking a property without the
owner’s consent is punishable by law in
Namibia. However, Namibian graffiti artists
as well as the communities are finding
unique ways to embrace this. One such way
is with community projects, for example
the graffiti project of the Pionierspark play
park jointly commissioned by the Brazilian
Embassy, Franco-Namibian Cultural Centre,
and Studio 77.
Source:
www.namcrafts.com
www.namibia-travel-guide.com

Staple foods include corn porridge and
meat or fish stews. Dishes often include
pasta, rice and potatoes; while vegetables
include tomatoes, cabbage, celery and
beans. Fruits which are found abundantly
throughout Namibia include oranges,
bananas, mandarins, pineapples, kiwis, and
avocados; dried fruit is a particular favourite.
Popular meat choices include beef,
lamb, pork, chicken, ostrich, game (kudu,
springbok and gemsbok) and cured or
smoked ham. More adventurous local meats
include goat, bush rat, and fried caterpillars
known as omanugu or mopane worms and
often cooked with chilli and onion.
Corn occurs most frequently in the south
of Namibia where it is used in the making
of bread, most often accompanied by
fish. As a result of the hot, dry climate and
desert conditions in most parts, couscous
has become popular, as well as peanuts.
The weather has also ensured that outdoor
cooking has become the norm, and is most
frequently done in the form of ‘braais’ and
‘potjiekos’ stews. Spices and herbs are
essential to Namibian food and cooking
techniques have stemmed from German and
French cooking styles. Dishes are generally
presented in visually attractive ways and
make use of extensive colours.
Namibian Cuisine
Typical Namibian cuisine is heavily influenced by the country’s history, cultures, climate
and environment. This is most evident in the influences of traditional German and South
African dishes as well as the use of meat, game and seafood.

There are a number of festivals and national
holidays in Namibia and traditional food
forms an important part of most of them.
Namibia’s national day is the 21 March
and the air is usually filled with the smoke
and smell of braai fires and bubbling potjie
pots. Traditional dishes are usually served
on Worker’s Day, Cassinga Day, Ascension
Day, Africa Day, Heroes’ Day, Women’s
Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Frequent dishes include varieties of stews
with snacks of biltong, brotchen and
landjäger, which is a smoked pork and beef
sausage. Rauchfleisch is a beautiful smoked
meat which is enjoyed throughout Namibia.
For those with a sweeter tooth, the German
influence is seen extensively in the variety
of breads, cakes and pastries used in
Namibian food; and for the thirsty, Namibia
has a big German brewing tradition and its
national drink is Tafel Lager and the ever
popular Windhoek Lager.
Namibian food definitely has a unique
flavour and look and is predominantly
prepared by the woman of the household.
However, tourists are not often exposed
to it as most restaurants favour a typically
European style – although hints of Namibian
influence often crop-up in dishes, which is
most often preferred. One thing that can be
guaranteed is the freshness and abundance
of food products.
Traditional Namibian foods include:
• eedingu (dried meat, carrots and green
beans);
• kapana (meat);
• mealie pap (porridge);
• omanugu (mopane worms);
• oshifima (millet);
• oshifima ne vanda (millet with meat);
• oshiwambo (spinach and beef).
Source: en.wikipedia.org
The direct access to the sea has given rise to an extensive fishing industry which brings in
seafood including vast arrays of fish, mussels, oysters, squid and shellfish.

Sport in Namibia
The Namibian people are passionate about sport as it is a source of great national pride
and recreation.

This could partly be due to the favourable
weather conditions which make sport a
major pastime all over the country. Although
the population of Namibia is small, there is
still a vast array of sports that are offered
at differing levels – both amateur and
professional. Namibian sports spectators are
dedicated to following their preferred sports
and teams.
The main sports in Namibia are soccer,
rugby, cricket, golf and fishing. Athletics
and boxing are also very popular. Windhoek
is the sports capital and the home of the
national stadium, Independence Stadium,
which is shared by all arena sports. There is
also the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Katutura
which is also often used. There are 46
different sports federations and unions
including for: dancing, netball, archery,
badminton, basketball, bowling, canoeing,
chess, cycling, darts, eisstock, endurance
riding, equestrian, fistball, gymnastics,
hockey, judo, karate, motor sports, sailing,
shooting, swimming, softball, squash, table
tennis, triathlon, volleyball, and wrestling.
The National Sports Federation of Namibia
and the Namibian Sports Commission
Mandate are responsible for overseeing the
regulation of sports in the country.
Soccer
The most popular team sport in Namibia is
Soccer and the country joined FIFA in 1992,
thus becoming an international player. The
national soccer team participates regularly
in the Africa Nations Cup qualifiers and
played in the tournament for the first time
in 1998 in Burkina Faso and again in 2008.
Soccer is governed by the Namibia Football
Association and the main domestic league is

The Namibia Premier League. Namibia is yet
to qualify for the FIFA World Cup although
has been the runner up in the COSAFA Cup
twice.
Popular local clubs include: Black Africa,
Orlando Pirates, African Stars, Tigers, Blue
Waters, Chief Santos and Oshakati City –
with many names borrowed from European
teams.
Rugby Union
South Africa introduced the Rugby Union
to Namibia in 1916 and today the Namibia
Rugby Union is the main governing body.
The national rugby team are known as
the Welwitschia and they participate
regularly at the Rugby World Cup. Up until
independence, Namibian players were
eligible to play for the South African National
team and past Springboks born in Namibia
include Jan Ellis and Percy Montgomery.
Cricket
The beginnings of Namibian cricket are
linked closely with South African cricket.
However, in post independence, the
Namibian Cricket Board was formed and

began to develop the game nationally. Tours
from England and the Netherlands were
arranged and associate membership to the
ICC was granted in 1992. Namibia hosted
the 2007 World Cricket League Division 2.
Golf
Namibia’s most well known golfer is Trevor
Dodds and Rossmund Desert Golf Course in
Swakopmund is the most popular course.
Boxing
Namibia has produced a number of
successful boxers including Japhet Uutoni
(won gold in 2006 Commonwealth Games
and 2006 African Boxing championships),
Paulus Ambunda (participated in 2004
Summer Olympics in Athens), Paulus
Moses, Harry Simon and Joseph Jermia
(participated in 2004 Summer Olympics
and won bronze in 2003 All-Africa Games).
Namibia was host of the final continental
qualifying round for the 2008 Summer
Olympics and three Namibians qualified,
namely Japhet Uutoni, Mujandjae Kasuto
and Julius Indongo. In January 2009, Paulus
Moses won the WBA lightweight title in
2009.
Highlights of the Namibian sports calendar
have included the Commonwealth Games of
2002 and 2006, the All Africa Games of 2003
and 2007, the Cricket World Cup of 2003,
the Rugby World Cups of 2003, 2007 and
2011, the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games
in Athens and Beijing respectively; and the
2008 African Cup of Nations finals in Ghana,
and the 2012 Paralympics.
National sports heroes include Frankie
Fredericks, Agnes Samaria, Eliphas Shivute,
Mohammed Ouseb, Luketz Swartbooi,
Elizabeth Mongudhi, Helalia Johannes,
Beata Naigambo, Collin Benjamin, Paulus
‘The Hitman’ Moses, Mannie Heymans and
Douw Calitz, and Johanna Benson.
Namibia Sport is Namibia’s leading sport
magazine which has been in print since
2002, making it Namibia’s longest running
independent magazine to date. The
coverage of Namibian soccer has helped
to professionalise the sport over the last
few years. The magazine instituted soccer
awards for the Player of the Month and
Player of the Season.
www.namibiasport.org

Namibian Activities
Namibia is a country of great natural beauty, vast expanses and a warm dry climate. As a
result, it is the perfect country to visit for outdoor adventures as Namibia has so much to
offer to outdoors enthusiasts.

From exploring the magical desert
landscape and its unique ecosystem, to the
world’s second largest canyon, to the cold
spray of the heaving South Atlantic Ocean –
there is never a dull moment in Namibia,
and visitors are left with a multitude of
memories forever etched into their minds.
Unique sightings range from the rare desert
elephants, to the mysterious wild horses,
to the discovery of a gem brought up to the
earth’s surface. There are numerous outdoor
activities and adventure safaris and tours
with some requiring physical exertion and
adrenaline, while others offer relaxation.
Hiking:
• Fish River Hiking Trail (5 day unguided)
• Brandberg Ascent
• Naukluft Hike (8/4 day unguided)
• Fish River Canyon Mule Trail
• Desert Experience Hike
• Klipspringer Mule Trail
• Waterberg Hike (4 day unguided)
• Mundulea Walking Trails
• Tok Tokkie Hiking Trail (2 day unguided)
• Sweet Thorn Trail (2 day unguided)
• Olive Trail (1 day unguided)
• Waterkloof Hike (1 day unguided)
Riding:
• Fish River Horse Riding (6 days)
• Desert Horse Ride (6 days)
Flying:
• Classic South
• Conception Bay Flight
• Skeleton Coast & Damaraland Flight
• Skeleton Coast (Ugab River Flight)
• Skeleton Coast (Uniab River Flight)
• Sossusvlei Scenic Flight
• Sossusvlei Excursion
• Ultimate South (Fish River)
• Ultimate South (Luderitz)
Ballooning:
• Sossusvlei (dune fields)
Fishing:
• Boat Fishing
• Combo Fishing
• Shore Fishing

Game viewing:
• Etosha Game Drives (from Halali,
Okaukuejo, & Namutoni)
Luderitz:
• Kolmanskop Ghost Town
• Pamona & Bogenfels Day Tour
(Sperrgebiet Forbidden Diamond zone)
• Schooner Trips (2½ hours from Luderitz
harbour)
Boating:
• Caprivi Houseboat Safaris
• Nama / Eagle Canoeing
• Orange River Canoeing
• Pride of the Zambezi Houseboat
Swakopmund:
• Bird watching
• Seal colony at Cape Cross
• Messum Crater (Welwitschia Mirabilis)
• Fishing
• Living Desert Tour
• Minerals Half Day
• Namib Desert Day Trip
• Namib Desert Night Walks
• Quad Biking
• Sandboarding
• Sandwich Harbour Tour
• Skydiving
• Spitzkoppe Day Tour
Walvis Bay:
• Catamaran Cruise
• Dolphin Cruise
• Historian Quad Bike Edu-Desert
• Sea Kayaking
Windhoek:
• Township Cycling Tours
• Windhoek Township Tours
4x4 Trails:
• Kalahari Bush Breaks Trail
• Isabis 4x4 Trail
• Naukluft 4x4 Trail
www.namibian.org

Calendar of Events
JANUARY
New Year’s Day
Celebrated in Namibia with parties and festive meals.
FEBRUARY
Bank Windhoek Arts Festival
First of monthly pre-festival events of theatre, dance, music and
visual art as part of build-up before main event in September.
MARCH
Enjando Street Festival
Live entertainment such as dancing, live music, and traditional
costumes.
Independence Day
National holiday celebrated on the 21st each year.
Wild Cinema
Annual international film festival.
Good Friday / Easter Sunday / Easter Monday
Late March or early April sees religious services and gatherings in
churches and cathedrals throughout Namibia.
APRIL
Windhoek Karneval (WIKA)
Weekend in late April, German festivities include Prinzenball (music
performances, masked ball, children’s carnival and a parade).
MAY
Workers’ Day
Namibian public holiday on May 1st.
Cassinga Day
Namibian public holiday on May 4th commemorating the 1978 Battle
of Cassinga.
Africa Day
Public holiday on May 25th celebrating unity in Africa with a different
theme annually.
Adventure Race Namibia 24-Hour Ultra Marathon
A 126km ultra race of three marathons in northern Namib Desert
from Brandberg Mountain.
Ascension Day
National holiday in mid to late May or early June (39 days after
Easter Sunday).
JUNE
Namibia Tourism Expo
Tourism showcase from beer and wine, to arts and crafts at the
Windhoek Show Grounds; open to trade and general public.
JULY
Old Mutual Victory Race
Course covers the half marathon distance in Swakopmund.
Science and Technology Fair
Held by the Windhoek Show Society.
AUGUST
College of the Arts Music (COTA) Festival
Includes solo performances from talented students in the National
Theatre of Namibia at Windhoek with the Windhoek Philharmonic
Orchestra.
Kuste Karneval
Involves a street parade, numerous parties and children’s activities in
Swakopmund.
Heroes’ Day (Maharero Day)
Lively event held in memory of Namibian war heroes on August 26th
in Okahandaja and involves military processions, poetry and recitals.
Ongwediva Trade Fair
Attraction hosting international and local exhibitors.
SEPTEMBER
Oruuano of Namibia Arts Festival
Local dance and music event held in Soweto Market in Windhoek
twice a year (also in November).
Summer Sound Festival
Features music and some dance performances in the Independence
Arena at Katutura.
Namrock Festival
A showcase of the best local musicians at the Coca Cola
Entertainment Dome at the Windhoek Showgrounds.
Namibia has numerous festivals of art and music as well as trade shows and fairs all
throughout the year. Many are notably situated around Windhoek.

OCTOBER
Oktoberfest
A popular internationally attended event showcasing Namibia’s
German brewing tradition.
Soul Desert Festival
Spiritual healing event with speakers, refreshments and
entertainment.
White Flag Herero Procession
Popular parade held on weekend closest to the 10th at Ozonde
suburb in Omaruru and always attracts a good turnout.
Windhoek Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Show
A widely attended industrial and agricultural show held at the
showgrounds.
AE Gams Arts Festival
The best in Namibian artwork exhibited at various galleries around
Windhoek.
NOVEMBER
Oruuano of Namibia Arts Festival
Second of two events organised by the Namibian Artists’ Union and
held in Katutura, Windhoek.
Annual Charity Concert
Organised by the National Theatre of Namibia, Windhoek in aid of
the elderly and vulnerable and local bands and choirs entertain the
audience.
Christmas Concert
Held at the National Theatre of Namibia, Windhoek annually is
Christmas around the World and includes Christmas songs, carols
and hymns from all over the world as well as the traditional African
programme.
DECEMBER
FNB Desert Dash 24-Hour MTB Team Challenge
Cycle race from Windhoek to Swakopmund over the Khomas
Hochland.
Swakopmunder Musikwoche
Includes a lecture, concert, an outdoor promenade concert and
church concert
International Human Rights Day
Public holiday on December 10th with much activity in Windhoek.
Christmas
Focused on family celebrations and starting on December 24th for
German Namibians. Family Day (Day of Goodwill) on December 26th
is used by traditional Namibian tribes and families to remember their
ancestors.
Source: www.namibiatourism.com.na
Namibians regard public holidays as important events and highlights include
Independence Day in March, Africa Day and Ascension Day in May, Heroes’ Day in
August, and International Human Rights Day in December.

Sam Nujoma
Namibia’s first president and “father of the nation”.
NamibianIcon

Namibian politician Samuel Daniel
Shafiishuna Nujoma was born to the
Ovambo ethnic group on 12 May 1929
in northern Namibia at Etunda village in
Ongandjera, the Omusati region. He was at
the helm of the SWAPO for 47 years – from
its founding in 1960 throughout its long
struggle against South African rule and
into independence. He became the first
President of Namibia from 1990 to 2005
when Namibia gained independence on
21 March 1990. He was re-elected in 1994
and 1999 and remained in office until March
2005.
SWAPO
From his humble beginnings as a railway
worker, Nujoma co-founded the political
party Ovamboland People’s Organisation in
the late 1950s, which then became SWAPO
in 1960. The role of SWAPO was to bring
independence from South African apartheid
rule to the Namibian people. As president
of SWAPO, Nujoma unsuccessfully pleaded
with the United Nations for years to ensure
the release of South African control. He then
took matters into his own hands and formed
an armed resistance in 1966 which started
the Namibian War of Independence, lasting
24 years. During this time, Nujoma became
known as “Shafiishuna” which means
lightning.
Namibian President
Nujoma went into exile for almost 30 years
where he continued to organise the struggle
until 1989 when he returned to assume
presidency. The United Nations supervised
the elections which unanimously heralded
Nujoma as Namibia’s first president and
he was sworn in by UN Secretary-General
Javier Pérez de Cuéllar on 21 March 1990.
During his presidency, the ever-energetic
Nujoma skilfully tackled issues of education,
housing, medical care, and international
economic competitiveness. He ran a
liberal-democracy and a largely free
enterprise economy. He focused on a policy
of ‘national reconciliation’ in an effort to
create ethnic harmony within Namibia.
As president, Nujoma held no animosity
towards South Africa in his economic
dealings with the country.
Hifekepunye Pohamba succeeded Nujoma
as President of Namibia on 21 March 2005
and when Nujoma relinquished his role as
head of SWAPO in 2007, he stated that
he was “passing the torch and mantle of
leadership to comrade Pohamba”. He was
given the honorary titles of Leader of the
Namibian Revolution as well as Founding
Father of the Namibian Nation by the
SWAPO Congress and the Namibian people.
Nujoma’s son Utoni became Deputy Minister
of Justice after having been elected to the
Central Committee and Politburo of SWAPO
in November 2007. Nujoma’s mother, Kuku
Helvi-Mpingana Kondombombolo died in
November 2008 at a reported age of more
than 100 years old.
Even after retiring from his former political
roles, Nujoma is still politically active and
campaigns regularly for SWAPO across
Namibia.
Awards
Together with his larger-than-life personality,
Nujoma has numerous respectable
accolades, including a Doctorate honoris
causa in Public Management from
Polytechnic of Namibia in 2005 and
obtained his Master’s degree in Geology at
the University of Namibia in 2009. In 2004
he received the Cheetah Conservation
Fund’s Lifetime Conservation Award. Other
notable awards include the Lenin Peace
Prize in 1968, the November Medal Prize in
1978, the Frederick Joliot Curie Gold Medal
in 1980, the Namibia Freedom Award from
California State University in 1980, as well
as an honorary doctorate from Ahmadu
Bello University in Nigeria.
Nujoma married Kovambo Theopoldine
Katjimune in 1956 and has five children.
Source: www.namibian.org

Born in Namibia, Marlice van Vuuren grew
up surrounded by animals on her parents’
farm, and spent the first 30 years of her life
caring for stray and injured animals.
During this time, she also developed a close
relationship with the local San community
and is one of a few non-native people in the
world to speak the San language.
In 2004, Marlice and her husband, Dr Rudie
van Vuuren, purchased a farm 13 km’s East
of Windhoek and established their nature
reserve, N/a’an ku sê, which means ‘God
will protect us’ in the San language. The
Wildlife Sanctuary cares for orphaned and
injured animals.
This Namibian eco-project has gained
Marlice celebrity status across southern
Africa and her great passion and strides in
conservation have been widely noted. She
is well remembered for her starring role
alongside Lucky the three-legged cheetah in
the award winning VW Golf 6 advert. Lucky
is one of N/a’an ku sê’s rescue success
stories and is a favourite with visitors.
Wild Animal Orphans on Animal Planet
A dedicated television documentary on
Animal Planet called Wild Animal Orphans
follows the work of Marlice and her family as
they care for injured and abandoned animals
at N/a’an ku sê. Aired on 6 March 2012, Wild
Animal Orphans is broadcast throughout
Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
Highlights include the successful release of
cheetah and leopard at two of their release
sites, Solitaire and Sandfontein.
Marlice’s unique understanding and
connection with animals such as cheetahs,
lions, leopards, caracals, baboons and
vultures, has given her expert ability in
animal handling. This skill has seen her
involved in numerous internationally
acclaimed projects, photo shoots and
films since the age of 13. One such project
was working with Angelina Jolie and
Clive Owen in the movie Beyond Borders,
where she had the charge of the vultures.
Her skills in the San language have also
been invaluable for translation with crews
when filming with the San community.
The N/a’an ku sê Foundation was registered
Marlice van Vuuren
Namibia’s Star of Conservation.
NamibianIcon

in 2007 with two main aims in mind – to
protect and conserve Namibia’s vulnerable
wildlife and to improve the lives of the
marginalised San community. N/a’an ku
sê Foundation is a UK registered charity
organisation and depends solely on
donations from sponsors and volunteers as
it is non-government funded.
N/a’an ku sê has received global awards and
is supported by the Jolie-Pitt Foundation.
The kind of animals found at the Sanctuary
are those who need rehabilitation or care
after surviving gin traps and bullets from
stock farmers, including leopards, lions,
caracal, wild dogs, baboons, and meerkats.
The ones they are able to rehabilitate are
released back into the wild.
Filmmakers and photographers from all over
the world are encouraged to visit N/a’an ku
sê and capture Namibia’s unique wildlife,
flora and scenic landscape. Namibia is one
of a few countries where six species of large
carnivore still exist – cheetah, leopard, lion,
African wild dog, spotted hyena and brown
hyena. Their care and protection is vital,
which is further evidence of the importance
of Marlice’s role in Namibian wildlife. There
are also volunteer programmes running in a
number of the N/a’an ku sê projects.
About N/a’an ku sê Foundation
Apart from the Wildlife Sanctuary, Marlice
also founded the Carnivore Conservation
Research Project to protect and conserve
wild cheetah, leopard and brown hyena
in Namibia, the Clever Cubs School and
education for San children, and the Lifeline
Clinic and medical outreach for the San
community.
Their philosophy is “Conservation through
Innovation” and they strive to create
sustainable and long-term solutions. It is
their vision to play a pro-active role in nature
conservation because they believe that we
hold this invaluable heritage in our trust for
future generations. We cannot undo what
has been done... but we can shape our
future.
The unique Lodge, Neuras Estate is one of
the ways of getting in much needed funds
and allowing the public to experience the
project first-hand. All profits from their
activities go directly to benefit their work
with wildlife conservation and the San
community.
Marlice and her husband have two sons,
Zacheo and Nicklai.
For further information on N/a’an ku sê
Foundation, please visit the
website www.naankuse.com or
email gemma@naankuse.com

Harold Pupkewitz was still at the helm of
his business empire, Pupkewitz Holdings,
after suffering a heart attack which led to his
death in Windhoek. As Executive Chairman,
Pupkewitz oversaw all entities such as:
Pupkewitz Motors - the largest dealer of
Toyota, Nissan and Honda cars in Namibia;
Megacell - the country’s largest distributor
of Nokia, Samsung and Apple products;
Pupkewitz Properties - one of the country’s
largest owners of prime residential and
commercial real estate; as well as significant
interests in irrigation services and green
technology.
Harold’s father Max started business in ox
wagon building and repairs in 1902. He
opened a shop in Okahandja in 1904 before
the Herero and Namaqua War, due to its
position on the route between Windhoek and
the coast of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.
When the arrival of the railways ended the
ox wagon era, Max opened a general dealer
business in Windhoek in 1925.
Harold Pupkewitz was born on 14 July 1915.
After attending Windhoek High School in
1932 he studied at Cape Town University.
When on holiday in Windhoek in 1937 he
decided to join the family business. Since
then, it has expanded throughout Namibia to
become a recognised market leader and a
significant part of the Namibian economy.
In July 1946, Harold Pupkewitz co-founded
M Pupkewitz and Sons. It started with
building material and farm supplies but
expanded in 1954 to include a furniture shop
and a motor car sale business. Pupkewitz
acquired the Toyota franchise in 1975 and
later added Hino trucks and the Nissan
franchise – growing into the largest car sales
branch in Namibia by 2002 with outlets in
Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Keetmanshoop,
Grootfontein, Otjiwarongo, Gobabis, and
Aranos. Pupkewitz Holdings was founded as
an umbrella organisation in 1981.
Pupkewitz was a member of the President’s
Economic Advisory Council, directed the
boards of NamPost, NamPower, Telecom
Namibia, and MTC Namibia, and was
president of several political and economical
institutions.
He set up the Harold Pupkewitz Graduate
School of Business after a N$10-million
donation to Polytechnic of Namibia. In 2011,
the institution awarded him a Doctorate
honoris causa in Business Management. As
Namibia’s most dedicated philanthropist,
Harold Pupkewitz significantly supported
Namibia’s vocational training and education
system, and was active in the ETSIP
education upgrade initiative.
Harold Pupkewitz married Ethel Meyerovitz
in 1952 and they had two children.
Pupkewitz was a devout Jew and fought
anti-Semitism.
Widely regarded as the wealthiest Namibian
in recent history with Namibia’s largest
privately-held conglomerate, Harold
Pupkewitz’s legacy in Namibian business
will endure for generations to come.
www.inamibia.co.na
www.forbes.com
Harold PupkewitzNamibianIcon
The icon of Namibian business and industry and devoted philanthropist passed away on
27 April 2012 at the age of 96.

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