Namibia

Namibia is a large, sparsely-populated country in Southern Africa. The official language is English but Afrikaans, German, Rukwangali, Silozi, and four others are recognized. The Ovambo majority makes up almost half of the the population, and there are a wide variety of other ethnic groups. Namibia’s land is mostly arid desert. The protection of natural resources is actually discussed in the constitution. Endangered animal species include the wild dog, the black rhino, the oribi, and the puku. Mainstays of the economy include agriculture, herding, mining, and tourism. View spectacular desert sights at Namib-Naukluft Park, or at Etosha where the saline environment supports communities of flamingos and white pelicans. Twyfelfontein, also known as Doubtful Spring, has extensive rock art from early hunters and was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Namibia.

Namibian cooking is composed of both indigenous traditions and those of colonial European settlers. Wild plants and game are very widespread in the native cuisine. Germans love their Wiener schnitzel and lager beers.
Corn, millet, rice, and potatoes are popular starchy staples. Typical vegetables include tomatoes, cabbage, and celery. Pork products, poultry, lamb, rabbit, and fish are commonly eaten. Mielie pap is a thick corn-based porridge which people typically eat with braais (barbecues), or with a meat dish and a tomato and onion stew. Try Potjie Kos, a pot of vegetables and often chicken or meat slow-cooked over an open fire. You can pick up health foods or get a bite of Indian food in the capital city of Windhoek. Sample a few Kalahari Truffles or some Swakopmund green asparagus if your visit coincides with their being in season. What luck that would be!