Namibia is located in southern Africa, bordered by Angola to the north, Zambia and Zimbabwe to the northeast, Botswana to the east, South Africa to the south and southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Its coordinates range from approximately 17.0° to 29.0° south latitude and 11.0° to 25.0° east longitude.
Geography
Climate
Namibia exhibits a diverse range of climates, from arid deserts to semi-arid and subtropical climates. The coastal areas experience a cool maritime climate, while the interior is characterized by hot, dry conditions. Rainfall is sparse and highly variable across the country, with the Namib Desert being one of the driest regions on Earth.
Fauna
Namibia is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting an array of wildlife species adapted to its harsh environments. Iconic animals such as elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes roam the savannahs and deserts, while endemic species like the desert-adapted elephant and black-faced impala thrive in the arid landscapes.
Longest Rivers
The two longest rivers in Namibia are the Zambezi and the Orange River. The Zambezi forms part of Namibia’s northeastern border with Zambia and Zimbabwe, while the Orange River flows along the southern border with South Africa, emptying into the Atlantic Ocean.
Highest Mountains
Brandberg Mountain, located in the Erongo region, is Namibia’s highest peak, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,573 meters (8,439 feet) above sea level. Other notable mountains include the Spitzkoppe and the Naukluft Mountains, which offer breathtaking vistas and hiking opportunities.
History
Prehistory
Namibia has a rich archaeological heritage, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Stone tools and rock art found in various regions attest to the presence of ancient hunter-gatherer societies, such as the San and Khoekhoe peoples.
Colonial Era
The arrival of European colonizers in the 19th century, particularly the German and later South African forces, profoundly impacted Namibia’s history. The country was known as German South-West Africa until the end of World War I when it came under South African administration.
Independence
Namibia gained independence from South Africa on March 21, 1990, following years of armed struggle and international pressure. The country’s first president, Sam Nujoma, led the newly independent nation towards reconciliation and nation-building efforts.
Modern Age
Since independence, Namibia has made significant strides in areas such as democracy, governance, and economic development. However, challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation persist, requiring ongoing efforts to address them effectively.
Demographics
Namibia has a diverse population comprising various ethnic groups, including the Ovambo, Kavango, Herero, Himba, and San, among others. The country’s population is estimated to be around 2.5 million people, with a relatively low population density due to its vast and sparsely populated landscapes.
Administrative Divisions
Namibia is divided into 14 regions, each with its own distinct characteristics and demographics. These regions are further subdivided into constituencies and local authorities. Here is a list of the administrative divisions along with their respective populations:
- Zambezi – Population: 106,000
- Erongo – Population: 150,000
- Otjozondjupa – Population: 151,000
- Omaheke – Population: 78,000
- Khomas – Population: 396,000
- Oshikoto – Population: 190,000
- Ohangwena – Population: 245,000
- Omusati – Population: 242,000
- Oshana – Population: 212,000
- Kunene – Population: 131,000
- Kavango East – Population: 267,000
- Kavango West – Population: 96,000
- Hardap – Population: 79,000
- Karas – Population: 79,000
10 Largest Cities by Population
The largest cities in Namibia by population include:
- Windhoek – Population: 430,000
- Rundu – Population: 80,000
- Walvis Bay – Population: 100,000
- Oshakati – Population: 50,000
- Swakopmund – Population: 45,000
Education Systems
Namibia has made significant strides in expanding access to education since independence. The government provides free primary and secondary education to all citizens, with efforts ongoing to improve quality and inclusivity.
Top Universities
Namibia boasts several reputable institutions of higher learning, including the University of Namibia (UNAM) and the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). These institutions offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Transportation
Namibia’s transportation infrastructure encompasses a network of roads, railways, airports, and ports, facilitating both domestic and international travel and trade.
Airports
Namibia has numerous airports, with the major ones including:
- Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek)
- Walvis Bay Airport
- Eros Airport (Windhoek)
- Ondangwa Airport
- Katima Mulilo Airport
Railways
Namibia’s railway system primarily serves the transportation of freight, connecting key mining and industrial areas. The TransNamib Railway is the country’s main railway operator, with a total network spanning approximately 2,382 kilometers.
Highways
Namibia has an extensive network of highways, including the B1 and B2 highways, which serve as major arterial routes connecting different regions of the country. The total length of Namibia’s highways is approximately 48,875 kilometers.
Ports
Namibia’s major ports include:
- Port of Walvis Bay
- Port of Lüderitz
- Port of Namibe (in Angola)
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Country Facts
- Population: 2.5 million
- Capital: Windhoek
- Official Language: English
- Religion: Christianity (predominantly Lutheran)
- Race: Diverse ethnic groups, including Ovambo, Herero, Damara, Nama, and San
- Currency: Namibian Dollar (NAD)
- ISO Country Codes: NA
- International Calling Code: +264
- Top-Level Domain: .na