Namibia Independence Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Namibia

The origin of the country's name is the word 'nama,' which means 'vast location.' Nama was used to refer to the Namib desert, which is believed to be the world's earliest desert.

Namibia Independence Day is celebrated annually on March 21 to commemorate the nation’s declaration of independence. Namibia is a country in southern Africa that has experienced numerous political power transfers over the years. In 1990, Namibia attained full independence and was recognized as an independent nation. This independence day is celebrated as a national holiday in Namibia, with parades and political ceremonies witnessed by the country’s top leaders. Proud citizens commemorate the day by wishing the nation prosperity and peace.

The background of Namibia Independence Day

The origin of the country’s name is the word ‘nama,’ which means ‘vast location.’ Nama was used to refer to the Namib desert, which is believed to be the world’s earliest desert. In prehistoric periods, ethnic African tribes such as the Nama, San, and Damara inhabited Namibia. In 1485, Portuguese explorer Diogo Cao led the first European expedition to Namibia, when he reached the southern African nation.

Namibia became a German colony under Otto von Bismarck in 1884. At the time, the country was referred to as Deutsch-Südwestafrika, or South-West Africa. Over 10,000 Namibians were systemically executed by German occupiers in 1904. After Germany’s defeat in World War I, South Africa took control of the country. After World War II, in response to United Nations sanctions, South Africa was requested to relinquish control of Namibia, but it refused.

In the 1970s, independence movements began. At this time, neighboring countries such as Angola and Zambia also achieved independence from South Africa, which inspired the Namibian people. The guerrilla group People’s Liberation Army of Namibia spearheaded the fight for Namibia’s independence from South Africa. South Africa consented in 1988 to grant Namibia its long-awaited independence. Namibia obtained independence on March 21, 1990, and was renamed the Republic of Namibia. Sam Nujoma was elected the nation’s first president.

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