Celebrating Namibia’s IndependenceThrough Etosha Safari Camp

The commemoration of Independence Day this year is especially noteworthy since Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first female president, ushers in a new era. A momentous occasion transformed into a sign of progress and a revitalised dedication to diversity in leadership and inclusiveness.

True to the Gondwana Collection spirit, travel fanatics have the chance to celebrate Namibia’s rich and complex history at Etosha Safari Camp. Located 10 km south of the Andersson Gate of the Etosha National Park on the C38, this unique camp is a gateway to wildlife and adventure, while learning a thing or two about the days of old.

Set apart by its remarkable exhibition of Namibia’s past, the camp’s vibrant shebeen-style restaurant is decked with historical panels that tell the story of Namibia’s struggle for freedom, cultural heritage, and the resilience of its people.

These carefully curated displays, linked with vintage photographs, firsthand accounts, and informative texts, provide deeply educational stories of Namibia’s path to sovereignty.

Each panel at Etosha Safari Camp highlights significant periods in the county’s history, from pre-colonial times through the German and South African administrations, to the protracted fight for independence that culminated in 1990.

Visitors can explore the lives of Namibian freedom fighters and the role of diplomatic negotiations that led to independence.

The displays also pay homage to the cultural diversity of Namibia’s people, featuring information about different ethnic groups, their traditions, and their contributions to nation-building.

Beyond the panels, the shebeen setting brings history to life with its retro township atmosphere. Interestingly, the word ‘shebeen’ has its origins firmly rooted in the Gaelic (Irish) language.

It was originally derived from the Irish word ‘Síbín,’ between 1780 to 90, which referred to home brewed whiskey that was sold illegally then.

Over time, the word evolved to describe an unlicensed drinking establishment and has been adopted in other parts of the world.

In southern Africa, these unique establishments emerged during darker times. With the prohibition of intoxicating beverages for ‘native communities’ under the apartheid regime, locals had few options for places where they could freely enjoy themselves without fear of prosecution.

The smuggling of alcoholic beverages from Angola gave birth to the shebeen culture, where these underground bars provided a lively escape. They became increasingly popular, known for their entertaining and often insightful names, such as the camp’s very own ‘Down Corruption Bar’.

Following independence, shebeens were legalised, and today they operate as legitimate and vibrant social hubs.

Evenings at the camp are filled with uniquely Namibian sounds from the Etosha Boys, who perform live every night.

Gondwana Collection Namibia joins the country in commemorating over three decades of freedom, solidarity, and advancement on this momentous day.

We celebrate the Namibian people, who have moulded our dynamic and diverse country as we look back on its history.