Overview of Namibia

Profile

Namibia faces the South Atlantic with the vast Kalahari Desert inland and the coastal Namib Desert with its red dunes. Rich in underground resources including diamonds and uranium, mining forms the economic foundation while wildlife tourism is also a significant income source. Though English is the official language, Afrikaans, Oshiwambo, and various other languages are used daily. Population density is low, with small settlements scattered across vast lands outside the capital Windhoek. The country maintains stable democratic governance and relatively good security, gaining popularity as a safari and stargazing destination.

Official name: Republic of Namibia
Common name: Namibia
Numeric code: 516
Alpha-3 code: NAM
Alpha-2 code: NA
Population: Approx. 2.58 million (2024)
Population density: 3.2
Primary languages: English
Major religions: Christianity (mainly Lutheran)
National anthem: Namibia, Land of the Brave
Calling code: +264
Internet TLD: .na

History

Following colonial period, gained independence from South African rule in 1990.

Colonized as German South West Africa in the late 19th century, experiencing the Herero and Nama genocide. After World War I, placed under South African mandate with apartheid policies applied. SWAPO launched armed struggle in 1966, leading to prolonged independence war. Following international pressure and changes in Angola, South African forces withdrew under the 1988 New York Accords. Independence achieved on March 21, 1990, under first president Sam Nujoma, pursuing multi-party system and ethnic reconciliation. Since then, political stability has been maintained with continued economic growth centered on resource development and tourism promotion.

Geography & climate

Namib Desert to the west, central plateau at 1,000-2,000m elevation in center, Kalahari Desert to the east, with humid Caprivi Strip protruding to the northeast

Desert climate and steppe climate (winter dry)

Area: Africa / 824292 km²
Capital: Windhoek
Largest city: Windhoek
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Angola, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa

Natural resources

Diamonds, Uranium ore, Copper, Lead, Zinc, Natural gas, Salt, Fish resources, Tourism resources, Solar energy, Wind power, Semi-precious stones, Wildlife

Politics

Government: Presidential republic

Economy

Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD)

GDP (nominal): Approx. 14 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approx. 38 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English

Time zone: Central Africa Time (CAT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Ovambo, Damara, Herero, Nama, Himba, Caprivian, White (German and Afrikaner)

Life expectancy

65.3 years

Literacy rate

91%

National sports

Football, Rugby, Cricket, Athletics, Boxing