Geography

Namibia is a large country with a total area of 824,292 square kilometers (318,263 sq mi). The country is largely covered by the Namib Desert, which stretches along the Atlantic coast. The desert is home to a variety of unique plants and animals, including the Welwitschia mirabilis plant and the Namib sand gecko. The interior of the country is characterized by a plateau, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 meters (3,300 to 6,600 ft).

Namibia has a long coastline, with the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The coast is characterized by its rugged cliffs, sand dunes, and the Skeleton Coast, which is known for its shipwrecks. The country also has a number of rivers, including the Orange River, which forms the border with South Africa.

Population

Namibia has a population of over 2.5 million people. The majority of the population is made up of Black Namibians, with the largest ethnic groups being the Ovambo, Damara, Herero, and Nama. There is also a significant minority population of White Namibians, who are mainly of German descent.

Culture

Namibia is a culturally diverse country with a rich history. The country's culture is influenced by a variety of factors, including its indigenous peoples, its colonial past, and its modern development. The country has a number of traditional dances and music, and there are many festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Namibian art is known for its use of vibrant colors and its depictions of nature and daily life.

Economy

Namibia's economy is based on mining, agriculture, tourism, and fishing. The country has rich deposits of diamonds, uranium, and other minerals. Agriculture is also a major industry, with the country producing a variety of crops, including maize, sorghum, and millet. Tourism is a growing industry, with the country's natural beauty attracting visitors from around the world. The fishing industry is important to the economy, with Namibia being a major producer of fish and seafood.

History

Namibia has a long and complex history. The country was originally inhabited by a variety of indigenous peoples, including the San and the Nama. In the 19th century, Namibia was colonized by Germany, which established the German colony of South-West Africa. During World War I, South Africa took control of the territory. After the war, South Africa annexed the territory as a mandate of the League of Nations. Namibia was subjected to apartheid rule under South Africa, and the United Nations declared it a non-self-governing territory in 1966. In 1990, Namibia achieved independence from South Africa after a long struggle for freedom.

Major Landmarks

Namibia is home to a number of major landmarks, including:

• Etosha National Park: This is one of the largest and most famous wildlife parks in Africa, home to a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and rhinoceroses.
• Sossusvlei: Located in the Namib Desert, Sossusvlei is known for its towering red sand dunes, which are among the tallest in the world.
• Skeleton Coast: This rugged and desolate stretch of coastline is famous for its shipwrecks and its unique wildlife.
• Fish River Canyon: This is the largest canyon in Africa, and one of the largest in the world. The canyon is a popular destination for hiking and other outdoor activities.
• Twyfelfontein: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient rock engravings, which are estimated to be over 6,000 years old.