Despite its size, Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Africa. It has an estimated population of 2.2million people. The small population is largely due to the fact that Namibia is the most arid country south of the Sahara.
Colonised by Germany in 1884, Namibia was administered by South Africa from 1917 to 1990. Namibia became independent on 21 March 1990, and Walvis Bay enclave was re-integrated on 1March 1994.
Namibia’s people are diverse. The Himba are probably the best known ethnic group in Namibia. The Himba men are tall in stature, resembling the Masai of East Africa, while the women cover their bodies in red ochre. However, this tribe makes up just one per cent of Namibia’s culturally diverse population.
A large proportion of the population are the Owambo, followed by a smaller proportion of Kavango, Damara, Herero, San Bushmen, Topnaar and Tswana.
Around 12.5% of the population are White Namibians or mixed race, mostly of Afrikaaner or German descent.
All the cultural influences through history have added to the unique atmosphere of Namibia, with Germany, Great Britain and South Africa all having governed the territory, but it was with the eventual independence of Namibia that the country was able to develop its multi-cultural character and reinvent itself. There is a colourful and uniquely rich African vigour that now freely blends in with European influences transcending through to architecture, food, customs and art – all merging to create a distinctive Namibian character.
The history of Namibia has proved to be of popular interest for many travellers to Africa, attracting many tourists to this expansive country to experience some of the great history Namibia has to offer with its magnificent landscapes.
Find Out More Discuss Your Trip
