About 2.2 million people share the vast spaces of Namibia, the country has one of the lowest population densities in the world with 1.5 people per square kilometre. It is thought that only about a quarter of Namibians live in urban areas, although this figure is certainly increasing as growing numbers of unemployed people leave their villages and farms.
The population of Namibia is not evenly distributed with about 60% of people living in the northern regions, while the southern and coastal areas are almost unpopulated. Namibia's population can be divided into (at least) 11 ethnic groups, the biggest group of which is the Owambo people. As a country Namibia is still trying to find a national identity, but each of the countries cultural groups has its own a rich heritage and traditions.
Due to the unfortunate apartheid history of Namibia the division of people into cultural or tribal groups is an extremely sensitive issue, and most people prefer to think of themselves as Namibians.
Celia and I found Namibians very friendly and easy to talk to since most know English. While there are a lot of white people there is an economic apartheid. Most whites enjoy a solid middle class life while most blacks live poorly in shanty towns. Yet, overall there is peace and we felt safe.
A market scene.
Celia with her new friends.
Great people make a great country. Namibia has got it.
Have a great week
Love adios and ping on!
Dirk
