Namibia

Namibia, officially the Republic of Namibia is a country in Southern Africa whose western border is the Atlantic Ocean. It shares borders with Angola and Zambia to the north, Botswana and Zimbabwe to the east, and South Africa to the south and east.

Relatively little was known by the outside world about Namibia, which for many years was referred to by its geographic location: South West Africa, before the middle of the nineteenth century when explorers, ivory hunters, prospectors and missionaries began to journey into its interior. The country was colonized by Germany in 1884. When diamonds were discovered at Lüderitz in 1908, serious attention was drawn to German South West Africa, as it was known at the time.

After the German capitulation in 1915, martial law prevailed until 1919, when South West Africa became a mandate under the supervision of the Union of South Africa. In 1966 the South West Africa People's Organisation launched the war for liberation for the area soon-named Namibia.

The struggle for independence intensified and continued until South Africa agreed in 1988 to end its Apartheid administration. After democratic elections were held in 1989, Namibia became an independent state on 21 March 1990.

To date, Namibia boasts a proud record of uninterrupted peace and stability which is economically prosperous as a result of its productive mining, fishing, tourism and agricultural industries.

Although not as well known as some of its African neighbours, Namibia is a gem for those in search of the wilderness. The country is especially known for its contrasting landscapes. The desolate Namib Desert is said to be the oldest in the world, with its high dunes and awe-inspiring sense of space.

The Etosha National Park & Game Reserve is one of the finest in Africa, in that it remains, to a large extent, free of human influence. It owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression of approximately 5 000km². A series of waterholes along the southern edge of the pan guarantee rewarding and often spectacular game viewing.

Germanic influence can still be found in the country's good road infrastructure, well-equipped rest camps throughout the country and most cities' architecture. The perfect choice for nature lovers and amateur photographers alike.

Approximately half the population live below the international poverty line of U.S.$1.25 a day, and the nation has suffered heavily from the effects of HIV/AIDS, with 15% of the adult population infected with HIV in 2007.