Windhoek : City Filled with a Plethora of Communities

Windhoek city is the capital of Namibia. It is located almost at the epicenter of the country in the Khomas Highland plateau at an elevation of 1600 meters above sea level. The city traces its beginnings to the mid-1800s when the first settlement was developed by Jonker Afrikaner. This did not go down with the indigenous communities who had depended on a permanent spring located in the area for many years before. Several armed conflicts led to the demise of the new settlement. It was not until 1890 when the Germans colonized the territory that the town developed for the second time. Since then, the city has served as the economic, political, social and cultural center of the nation. This has led to the influx of many people from the rural areas seeking employment making it the most populous city in Namibia with a population close to 500,000. For visitors, it is a most pleasant place to embark on a tour of the country. A wealth of intriguing attractions and fine accommodation have placed the city as a top destination that is worth checking out. These include;

1. Namibia National Museum (Alte Feste)

This is an old fortress in the city that now serves as a museum. It is situated on a hill offering visitors a wonderful view of the city’s central business district. The fort was designed by Curt Von Francois to serve as the headquarters of the German colonial force. Windhoek was practically destroyed at that time, and the location of the fort between the Nama and Herero tribes was a military strategy by the Germans aimed at maximizing contact with the two communities. Construction began in October 1890; however, due to design revisions over the years, its final layout was completed in 1915. It was also the same year South Africa seized the land from the Germans and used the fort as their headquarters for operations. As Windhoek’s oldest building it has served many purposes over the years, and it remains an icon of the city. The museum has rock art exhibits some dating back thousands of years ago. The museum and the building remain a popular attraction for visitors and locals alike.

2. Daan Viljoen Game Reserve

This game park is home to a variety of species. There are walking paths and trails that allow tourists to explore the park on their own. The park’s location in the central highlands makes it an important sanctuary for the many species that call it home. The park is also home to over 200 bird species making it very popular among birdwatchers and other tourists alike. There is also a resort in the park for visitors who wish to unwind surrounded by nature at its most tranquil.

3. Christ Church, Windhoek

Also known as Christuskirche in German, this Lutheran church was designed by Gottlieb Redecker, a government architect in 1900 but wars delayed its construction until 1907. Most of the materials used in its construction were imported from Europe save for the sandstone which was mined from the nearby Avis dam area. The colorfully stained glass windows were gifted by Emperor Wilhelm II. It is an important landmark in the city thanks to its unique neo-Romanesque architectural style. The church tower at the height of 42 meters is topped by a Gothic spire visible from any part of the city. The church is not far from Alte Feste, and both tell the history of the town from its earliest beginnings.

4. Zoo Park

Among the city’s historical landmarks is this popular park that is open to the public. German colonial authorities designated an area known then as Schutztruppe Memorial in 1897. The locals assumed control of the land in 1911 after its expansion. The park underwent further expansion from 1960 to include the area encompassed by modern Fidel Castro Street and Independence Avenue. The park was then renamed in 1967 in honor of Dr. Hendrik Verwoerd. It acquired its current name in February 1989 just months before the country gained independence and with it majority rule. The park features majestic lawns, shady trees, and a pond. There is also a café which was opened in 1916 just a year after South Africa assumed control of the country. The park is a nice place to cool off and relax as one explores this beautiful city.

5. National Art Gallery of Namibia

Within the town lies the Art Gallery that is owned by the state. The gallery traces its roots to the Arts Association of Namibia which was the body in charge of coordination of crafts and visual arts at the national level before independence in 1990. Its main goals of the gallery are to promote, showcase and preserve local art. It achieves these objectives by offering free admission and by staging a variety of exhibitions all year round. The gallery also has an enviable permanent collection of local and international art.

6. Namibia Craft Centre (Namibia under one roof)

Looking for holistic knowledge of the culture and traditions of the various ethnic groups in the country? This is the place to be. There are products of various types including jewelry, textiles, and many more. There is also a café in the center where one can relax and dine after an exhilarating shopping experience. With many floors and different kinds of art and craft, you are sure to find something that appeals to you. Furthermore, it is the best place to buy a memento of your stay in Namibia or even a gift for your loved ones at home. The craft center ought not to be missed while in the capital.

7. Independence Memorial Museum

The Independence Memorial Museum was opened in 2014 with a purpose of telling the story of Namibia under colonial rule and its struggle for self-rule. Most of the exhibits were moved to the museum from the National Museum of Namibia while other additions were made making it the home for history on the issue of independence. The museum features a statue of Sam Nujuoma, the first president of Namibia at the entrance. The building itself has become a city landmark due to its unique architecture. While inside, one can also take the glass elevator and take in the beautiful view of the city from a vantage point.

8. Trans-Namib Transport Museum

The Trans-Namib Transport Museum is located in the historical Windhoek Railway Station. It is one of the most interesting museums in the country with wonderful exhibits that depict the evolution of transport in the country. The museum was officially opened on the 1st July 1993. The building is in itself an important monument has been a fixture of the city since 1912. The main exhibits consist of a wide range of railway equipment dating back to the German colonial times and South African administration. There are even locomotive exhibits outside including the first diesel locomotive that was used in the country. The museum also has exhibits that depict the history and evolution of air and water transport in the country.

9. Owela Museum

The Owela Museum is part of the National Museum of Namibia and is located less than a kilometer away from the main building. The museum’s name pays homage to the owela game played extensively across Africa. The museum contains a wealth of information on the history of the country’s native tribes. There are typical homesteads and objects of various uses on display offering visitors an insight into the culture and traditions of the people of Namibia. Its location close to the other two museums in the city is a plus. The fact that the museum has continued to attract many visitors since its inception is a testament to its ability to inform as well as entertain.

10. National Botanical Garden of Namibia

The garden is located in the heart of the city and is with no doubt among the city’s gems. In 1969, it was proclaimed as a conversation area and was in the present day home to a variety of birds and other creatures. Taking a stroll through the lush green flower haven, visitors can be able to identify plants from all over the country by their nametags. The garden is also a sanctuary where many endangered plant species are well nurtured to prevent their extinction. Any visitor is bound to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the garden. Spanning around 12 hectares, there are many areas to explore in the park all adding to the allure of this magnificent garden.

◎ Closing

This city is a sight to behold. It manifests European culture through things such as cuisine and the city buildings which are an indicator and source of the country’s rich history. This, however, marries seamlessly with Namibian influence accommodating people of all ages, cultures, hopes, and ambition. It’s simply a slice of green in the desert!

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Windhoek : City Filled with a Plethora of Communities