About Namibia .
Namibia was the last African country to attain independence after almost one century of colonial rule.
Until World War I, Namibia was a German colony under the name „German South West Africa“. In 1919 it was declared a mandate territory of the South African Union by the League of Nations. After World War II, although the mandate was not renewed by the United Nations, Namibia remained illegitimately the „Fifth Province“ of the South African Republic.
A long and bloody independence struggle followed, which, at the same time, was a combat against the apartheid system introduced by South Africa.
In autumn 1989, the first free elections were held. The first Namibian president, Sam Nujoma, was sworn in on 21 March 1990 by UN General Secretary Perez de Cuellar at the sport stadium in Windhoek. This date is considered as the birthday of the Republic of Namibia and is celebrated every year as Independence Day. After fifteen years in office, President Nujoma has been succeeded by Hifikepunye Pohamba, who was elected in November 2004 and sworn in as president on Independence Day in 2005. In 2009 Pohame got re-elected for a second term.
Namibia’s history as a former German colony is a reason for its special relations with Germany. Two decisions of the German Bundestag (in 1989 and 2004) stressed the „special responsibility of Germany“ towards the southern African country.
Namibiais a country of many facets. It is divided into the water-rich northern regions and the dry southern regions. The population density therefore highly differs: from the sparsely populated, dry South to the rich rainfall areas in the North and Northeast, where more than half of the population lives. As numerous as the ethnic groups are the languages spoken here. Next to Afrikaans, English and German the indigenous languages are widespread. Since 1990 English is the official language of Namibia.
Extreme social disparities and resulting poverty in most parts of its society are Namibia’s major problems. The 35% unemployment rate affects mainly the black population. Government strategy to fight social disadvantages includes three components: affirmative action, land reform and a substantial social budget. Due to the increasing significance of the land reform the Namibian government has elaborated a long-term strategy to tackle this issue.
The mining sector, being the most important industry, employs about 20.000 workers. 70 % of the population live either directly or indirectly on agriculture. Fishery is of growing importance and tourism has become a major industry sector after independence.
The HIV and AIDS prevalence rate is 19.9% (2007), differing according to region from 8 to 40% (Sentinel Survey 2006) and being a big economic and social problem.
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National flag.
The five colours of the flag represent the following: • Blue symbolizes the Namibian sky, the Atlantic Ocean, Namibian marine resources and the importance of rain and water. • Golden-yellow - The sun symbolizes life and energy, the Namib Desert. • Green refers to Namibia’s vegetation and agricultural resources. • Red represents the independence struggle, Namibian people and their heroism. • White refers to peace and unity.
The Coat of Arms.
The Namibian Coat of Arms has the same meaning as the National Flag. It is firmly anchored in the sand of the centuries old Namib Desert. The Welwitschia mirabilis, rooted in the desert sand is a unique desert plant and one of the world’s oldest. On the headband above the shield is the fish eagle, representing the North and Namibian country’s water resources. The fish eagle has excellent vision, impressive cry and silhouette. It represents Namibian future. The two Oryx antelope on either side of the shield are indigenous, specifically to the semi-arid parts of Namibia. They are renowned for their courage, elegance and pride. Even the lions respect them. The motto, Unity, Liberty, Justice enshrines the key principles embodied in the Constitution.
