Namibia's Rundu region is steeped in a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. Located in the far north-eastern corner of the country, the area is home to a number of different ethnic and cultural groups who have all left their mark on the region. From the earliest known inhabitants, the San, to the Herero, Nama and Ovambo people, the area has seen many changes over the centuries. Here, we take a look at the history of Namibia's Rundu region, from its earliest days to the present day.
The earliest known inhabitants of the area were the San people, who were hunter-gatherers and lived in the region for thousands of years. They were eventually displaced by the Herero, who migrated to the region in the late 19th century. The Herero were a pastoral people who kept cattle and sheep, and they quickly established themselves as the dominant group in the area.
The Herero were followed by the Nama, who were a semi-nomadic people who also kept livestock. They were followed by the Ovambo, who migrated to the region in the mid-20th century. The Ovambo are the largest ethnic group in Namibia today, and they are mainly farmers and cattle herders.
The area around Rundu was first settled by the Europeans in the late 19th century, when German traders began to establish trading posts along the Okavango River. In the early 20th century, the Germans colonized the region and established a fort at Rundu. This fort was later taken over by the South African forces during the First World War, and it remained in their control until Namibian independence in 1990.
Since independence, the area around Rundu has seen a number of changes. It is now home to a bustling town, with a number of different businesses, shops, and services. The area is also home to a number of different ethnic and cultural groups, as well as a growing tourist industry.
Namibia's Rundu region is a fascinating part of the country's history, and it is clear that the area has seen many changes over the centuries. From the earliest known inhabitants, the San, to the Herero, Nama and Ovambo people, the region has been home to a variety of different cultures and ethnic groups. Today, the area is a bustling town, with a number of different businesses, shops, and services, as well as a growing tourist industry.