Situated on the Atlantic coast of Africa, Namibia is a country of stunning contrasts, diverse landscapes and weather, and a vibrant array of sights, people, flora and fauna. Bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Angola, it is a vast land considered by many to be 'Africa's finest jewel', and truly 'out of this world'.

The country became independent on 21 March 1990 (from a South African mandate) and the Chief of State is President Sam Shafishuna NUJOMA.

There are more than 1,820,000 (July 2002 est.) in Namibia with about 50% of the population belong to the Ovambo tribe and 9% to the Kavangos tribe; other ethnic groups are: Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama 5%, Caprivian 4%, Bushmen 3%, Baster 2%, Tswana 0.5%.

Language: English 7% (official), Afrikaans common language of most of the population, German, Oshivambo, Herero, Nama.

Religion: Christian 75% to 85% (Lutheran 50% at least), indigenous beliefs 10% to 20%.

Climate: Desert; hot, dry; rainfall sparse and erratic.
Winter (May to Sept): Temperatures in the interior range from 18°C to 25°C during the day. Below freezing temperatures and ground frost are common at night.
Summer (Oct to Apr): Average interior temperatures range from 20°C to 34°C during the day. Temperatures above 40°C are often recorded in the extreme north and south of the country.
Capitol: Windhoek with 13 regions - Caprivi, Erongo, Hardap, Karas, Khomas, Kunene, Ohangwena, Okavango, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa.

Namibia was the first country in the world to incorporate the protection of the environment into its constitution; some 14% of the land is protected, including virtually the entire Namib Desert coastal strip.

For more information on tourism in Namibia, have a look at www.namibiatourism.com.na