Namibia Town of the Year 2017 by Absai Haiduwa

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NAMIBIA TOWN OF THE YEAR 2017 - FINALISTS -

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HERE’S TO THE #NTY2017 FINALISTS

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE 2017 NAMIBIA TOWN OF THE YEAR FINALIST AND STAND A CHANCE TO WIN N$27 000 IN CELEBRATION OF NAMIBIA’S 27 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE

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Tourism has the potential to reduce poverty in our country, hence our efforts in contributing in whatever manner we can towards the sector

INTRODUCING THE 2017 RESPONSIBLE AWARDS FINALISTS Gondwana Etosha Safari Lodge - Oshikoto Region Ongava Tented Camp - Oshikoto Region Jackalberry Camp - Zambezi Region Wilderness Safaris Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp - Kunene Region

The winner will be announced at the 2017 Namibia Tourism Expo, Wednesday, 31 MAY 2017.

Total Prize Value N$ 1 Million

NAMIBIA TOWN OF THE YEAR 2017 FINALISTS

Namibia let their voices hear for the 2017 Town of the Year

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Editorial: Willie Olivier, Jessica Botes, June Shimuoshili, Frank Steffen, Kenya Kambowe

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Through this publication, the reader will get to know the four nominated towns better and it will also give everyone the opportunity to compare the towns and ultimately vote for your preferred winner. Each town is unique in its culture, cuisine, and entertainment and And each nominated finalist also offer unique sightseeing opportunities. Al four towns offer ample reason to stop, stay over and experienced the best of a truly Namibian town. This publication will tell you more about each town and what you can do and see, but also emphasize the truly breathtaking diversity of animal life in each region represented. At the 2017 Namibia Expo each town will have an exhibit where visitors to the Expo can learn more from each town. This offer a unique opportunity to meet with the people of all four towns, in the nation’s capital. The Namibia Tourism Expo will be open for the public from 1 to 3 June at the Windhoek Show Grounds. Gates will open every day at 2 pm and close again at 10 pm. Voting for the Namibia Town of the Year 2017 will close at 17:00 on the 2nd of June and the winner will be announced at the Expo. Make your vote count and help Namibia decide on who will be the 2017 Namibia Town of the Year.

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rom all corners of the country the people of Namibia will have the opportunity to vote for their 2017 Namibia Town of the year. Last year saw Ongwediva emerge as worthy the winner and again this year four deserving nominations came from the people of Namibia via regional voting. The 2017 finalists proudly waving their regional flags will be Lüderitz (Southern Towns finalist), Ondangwa (Northern Towns finalist), Otjiwarongo (Central Towns finalist) and Swakopmund (Western Towns finalist). This is again a collection of nominees worthy to be Namibia’s Towns of the year. These four towns also represent a strong component of the tourism industry of Namibia. Many visitors, locally and abroad, can testify to the unique diversity Namibia offer. Stretching from the Orange River in the south, to the Kunene and Okavango rivers in the North, Namibia is known for the vastness and beauty that promote tourism. Namibian towns offer something unique for the visitor and many can testify of the friendliness, typically associated with smaller towns in Namibia. The Namibian town are our gems, and this annual search for the Namibia Town of the year, also awaken the understanding of each town to the potential they have in tourism.

NAMIBIA TOWN OF THE YEAR 2017 FINALISTS

Table of Content

Your vote counts The competition is open to everyone, irrespective of whether you are a resident of your favourite town or not. Vote by sending an SMS to 51500 with the trigger word TOWN followed by the name of the town you are voting for. Voting is limited to one vote per cellphone number to ensure fairness and the cost per sms is N$3. Voting closes at 5pm on the 2nd of June 2017. One lucky SMS entrant will receive a N$27 000 cash prize after the announcement of the winner. The amount of N$27 000 is to celebrate the 27 years of Independence of Namibia.

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Each area winner receives editorial coverage and advertising space to the value of N$50 000, while the national winner will receive an additional N$200 000 in editorial coverage and advertising space. As part of their prizes as finalists each finalist will be given an opportunity to exhibit at the Namibia Tourism Expo 2017 to the value of N$25 000. This will go towards their exhibition booth, branding of the stands as well as promotional materials for their respective towns.

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Otjiwarongo Swakopmund

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The competition aims to uplift towns and regions, as well as promote attractions and activities. It will also boost domestic tourism, especially during the low season. It is run by Namibia Media Holdings and its daily publications: Namibian Sun, Republikein and Allgemeine Zeitung, as well as its community newspapers: Ewi Iya Nooli, Windhoek Express and Erongo.

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EXAMPLE SMS “TOWN ABC” to “51500”

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Lüderitz Southern Towns Finalist Willie Olivier

Tanja Bause

n their arrival visitors are greeted by a sign which reads ‘Welcome to Lüderitzbucht’ and residents proudly refer to themselves as ‘Buchters.’ Situated off the main tourist routes, Lüderitz is often neglected at the expense of the more popular tourist attractions, but the 340km detour from Keetmanshoop is well worth the effort. Plan to spend at least two or three days in the town to ensure that you don’t run out of time as there is just so much to do and see! Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the dunes of the Namib Desert, the town of Lüderitz seemingly arises from the barren rocky outcrops along the coast. One of its most outstanding features is its rich heritage of well-preserved buildings and there is no better way to appreciate the town’s atmosphere, scenery and architectural gems than on foot. The opulent ‘diamond palaces’ now bear silent testimony to the town’s boom years following the discovery of diamonds at nearby Grasplats by Zacharias Lewala in 1908. The Felsenkirche (church on the rocks) and Goerke House on Diamantberg are two of the most prominent landmarks and need little introduction. But during a ramble along the streets of Lüderitz there

are numerous enchanting buildings that are often overlooked. The modest residences and commercial buildings lining Berg Street in the Altstadt (old town) area date back to the late 1900s and are in sharp contrast to the impressive residential houses of the town’s affluent and well-known residents. Among these is the double-storey Kreplin House built in 1909. Among the imposing buildings lining Ring Street is Woermann House which was built to accommodate the offices of the Woermann Shipping Line agency in 1907. Other noteworthy buildings include the Lesehalle (public library) with its quaint tower, the Turnhalle built in 1913 as a gymnastics hall for the

Manner-Turnverein Lüderitzbucht and the Bezirksgericht (regional court house) with its half-timbered façade. Unlikely to escape attention in the main street (Bismarck Street) is the Deutsche-Afrika Bank with its bell tower, Renaissance-style gable and stonework in the lower storey and one corner of the upper story. Fronting both the road and the railway line, the station building with its interesting façade was completed in 1914. It was one of the last major buildings to be constructed in the town before World War I broke out. But, there is much more to do and see in Lüderitz and on p. 8 we highlight some of the attractions and activities that you should not miss.

Kreplin House was built in 1909 for Emil Kreplin, Mayor of Lüderitz

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Vote for

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Vote for

Lüderitz Town Council 90 Bay Road, Lüderitz

Tel: +264 63 207 800 Fax: +264 63 202 971

Email: cdofficer@ltc.com.na www.luderitz-tc.com

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What to see in Lüderitz Tanja Bause

1. Kolmanskop Kolmanskop, 10 km east of Lüderitz, was established after the discovery of diamonds at nearby Grasplats in 1908. In its heyday the town boasted a ballroom, skittle alley, champagne bar for ladies and the first x-ray machine in southern Africa. When Kolmanskop was abandoned the desert soon reclaimed itself, reducing it to a ghost town. Tours are conducted at 09:30 and 11:00 from Monday to Saturday and at 10:00 on Sundays and public holidays. Permits are obtainable at Lüderitz Safaris and Tours (063) 202 719 or at the Kolmanskop entrance gate.

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Willie Olivier

2. Lüderitz Peninsula The rocky promontory on the Lüderitz Peninsula marks the spot where the Portuguese navigator Bartholomeu Dias planted a cross in 1488. The nearby lighthouse was built in 1910. Other attractions include Grosse Bucht and Sturmvogel Bucht, both of which are excellent for swimming and sunbathing. The rusty boilers at Sturmvogel Bucht are reminders of the whaling station which operated here in the early 1900s.

4. Zeepaard Catamaran Trips An early morning trip on board the ‘Zeepaard’ provides a completely different perspective of Lüderitz. During the two-hour journey you will enjoy watching dolphins riding the waves in the bow of the catamaran, sea birds soaring overhead and seals playing in the water. You can also catch a glimpse of the African penguins on Halifax Island. Tours depart daily at 08:00 sharp, weather permitting. Contact (063) 202173 for more information.

3. Felsenkirche & Goerke House Set against the backdrop of Diamantberg, the Felksenkirche and Goerke House are two of the town’s most impressive buildings. Guided tours of Goerke House are conducted between 14:00 and 16:00 from Monday to Friday and between 16:00 and 17:00 on Saturday and Sunday. The church is open daily from 16:00 to 17:00 (April to August) and from 17:00 to 18:00 (September to March) when the beautiful stained glass windows are seen at their best.

5. Elizabeth Bay ghost town Situated some 25km south of Lüderitz, Elizabeth Bay is a reminder of the days when diamond fever gripped the Namib Desert. When production stopped in 1948, the fierce winds and salt-laden mists eroded the brickwork into fascinating shapes. Guided tours are conducted, but you need to book well in advance to get the necessary police clearance. Contact Namib Offroad Excursions, tel (063) 202 957.

SHARK ISLAND

Shark Island is located on Shark Peninsula in Luderitz Bay in Southwest Namibia. The resort is an excellent central point for exploring the town of Luderitz, the famous Kolmanskop Ghost Town, and Diaz Point, the historic landing spot of 17th century explorer Barthelomeuz Diaz. Various accommodation options are offered.

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After enjoying a splendid sunset from your private balcony you can lay back, relax and let the sound of gentle waves carry you away into a nautical dream world. We offer fully equipped, self catering units with Cable TV and uncapped Wi-Fi. We are located on the edge of Shark Island with secure parking behind a remote controlled, security gate. Please visit our homepage at thecormoranthouse.com or contact us at cormorant@iway.na or +264 81 128 8625.

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the ocean with the Atlantic breakers at your feet and the sea breeze in your hair while watching the cormorants at play in the surf.

The Cormorant House

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Experience

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Once upon a time a bustling little town, today a whisper, a silent witness of an era where diamonds sparkled and sustained a life of wealth and riches in the heart of the harsh Namib Desert. Take a step into history and join us for a guided tour through the windswept houses. Kolmanskop is located 10 km outside of Lüderitz. Conact us at www.kolmanskuppe.com.na, send an email to kolmans@iafrica.com.na or call us at 063 - 204031

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Tsau//Khaeb National Park Willie Olivier

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overing 26 000km², the Tsau //Khaeb National Park was proclaimed in 2008 as the Sperrgebiet National Park. Prior to its proclamation, this harsh and forbidding tract of land enjoyed the protection of having been declared the Sperrgebiet (forbidden territory) on account of its wealth of diamonds in 1920. The landscape is a mosaic of inselbergen (island mountains), wind-swept sand and gravel plains, scattered rocky outcrops and dune fields, while the coastline alternates between rocky sections with sandy bays and sandy beaches. The park provides pro-

tection to some 80 land and 38 marine mammal species, close to 200 coastal, marine, wetland and land bird species, about 100 reptile species and 16 frog species. It also provides protection to the richest diversity of succulents in the world. Relics of the days when the desert was gripped by diamond fever include the ghost towns at Kolmanskop, Elizabeth Bay and Pomona. Other attractions include the Bogenfels, the highest coastal rock arch in southern Africa, and the Roter

Kamm, a meteorite impact crater. Access to the park is currently restricted to those joining guided tours at Kolmanskop and to Elizabeth Bay and Pomona and the Bogenfels. The small five of the Ksau//Khaeb National Park

While the large mammals often enjoy centre stage, the small mammals and flora are often overlooked. So here’s a rundown on the Small Five of the Tsau// Khaeb National Park.

Namaqua chameleon

The Namaqua chameleon is one of about 100 reptile species that have been recorded in the park. It reaches a maximum length of 260mm and its habitat ranges from sandy and gravel plains to dune areas. It gains heat rapidly in the early morning when it is almost black by flattening its body to increase its body surface. The flattened side is then turned to the sun to absorb the heat of the rising sun and its colour changes to pale grey or brownish grey as its body temperature increases.

Mesembs

Also commonly referred to as ‘vygies’ and ice plants, the term mesembs is used for succulent plants of the Aizoaceae or Vygie Family. It is one of the most dominant families in the Succulent Karoo ecosystem which has been designated one of the top 34 biodiversity hotspots in the world on account of its rich diversity of succulents. Some 1 050 plant species have been recorded in the park to date, including at least 234 endemic species.

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African penguin The offshore islands along the Sperrgebiet coastline do not form part of the park, but have been declared a marine protected area. They provide breeding grounds for the ten coastal and marine birds, among

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Black-backed jackal Detested by small stock farmers in southern Namibia, the black-backed jackal plays an important ecological role as refuse collectors. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect carcasses and carrion from at least 1km down wind. Dead seal pups form an important component of their diet along the coast, especially during the seal pupping period which starts in November. They are also very effective hunters of young springbok, but can even take down adult springbok when they hunt in packs. Hares, rats, insects, ground-nesting birds, small reptiles and even wild fruit are also eaten. They are mainly active at night but can often be seen during the day, especially near the seal colonies.

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Tenebrionid beetles The tenebrionid beetles belong to a large family of mainly ground-dwelling beetles that are uniquely adapted to survive the harsh desert

environment. More than 200 species have been recorded in the Namib and over 20 species live in the practically vegetationless dunes. Many tenebrionid beetles are black, while others are black and white, yellow and black or brown. Some beetles are active during the day; others avoid the heat of the day and are active only in the morning and afternoon, while some species are strictly nocturnal. Detritus (wind-blown material mainly from plants) is a major food source of a number of species and in this way the beetles play an important role in the decomposition of the detritus. The different species occupy different niches in the desert with some living exclusively on the dune slipfaces, while others live near the base of the dunes, in the interdune valleys or on the plains.

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them the African penguin, a species that is classified as endangered in Namibia. The Namibian population has been estimated at 29 000 adult birds and 5,500 breeding pairs, but has declined by 50% in the past 30 years. Some 120 land bird species have been recorded in the park, including the near-endemic Barlowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lark, a species which occurs almost exclusively in the park, and the dune lark. Some 60 wetland species have been recorded, mainly along the Orange River.

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Revamped power station

DREAMER: An imported ship as one of the monuments.

The difficult works included demolition of old internal structures and construction of new columns and slabs and fitting a new roof over the existing heritage building. The Old Power Station built in

PROUDLY NAM: A sailing boat made by local artist to be on displayed in the museum.

1911, one of the oldest buildings in the town. According to the LWDC COE Fluksman Samuehl, the building will be transformed to house NUST Southern Campus, indoors and out door sport and recreational facilities and Maritime Museum which has potential to be a draw card for increased tourism at the harbour town. The transformed Old Power Station is not only a flagship project but it will be made the heartbeat of the town. In addition to being revamped, the transformation will help preserve and commemorate the town’s history and rich heritage. “I should point out that as a public enterprise that depends on government funding for implementing new projects, we have not been spared by the funding challenges but the matter is receiving attention by all stakeholders’ involved” he said. The company, however, remains optimistic that very soon adequate funding shall be made available to drive this important development project to its logical completion. The renovation and upgrading of the Old Power Station project aims to turn the building into an attractive waterfront space. “I should reiterate that the transformation will also include an indoor and outdoor sport facility for the use of locals and visitors alike,” he said. This includes an indoor-heated swimming

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he Lüderitz Waterfront Development Company (LWDC) has completed about 70% of the building works of one its development project namely the Old Power Station. Lüderitz Waterfront took over the building from the Lüderitz Town Council in 2010 for the purpose of sea view development.

pool, netball/volleyball courts, youth cafeteria, gymnasium, amphitheatre, beach volleyball and a host of youth friendly facilities in and around the massive Old Power Station building. “So far we have assembled a good selection of maritime artefacts which will be displayed in the museum. The Waterfront Company and government jointly funded this project with relevant ministries making the largest financial contribution,” said Samuehl. Professional curators will be hired to manage and run the maritime museum under the themes ‘Fishing at Sea’, ‘Mining at Sea’, and ‘Trading at Sea’.

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Lüderitz to open museum doors and more soon Lüderitz is transforming the old power station into an attractive waterfront destination for visitors.

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LIKE A MOVIE: The soon to be cinema with a lovely view.

MUSEUM: The very first marine museum to open its doors soon.

The second phase of the waterfront project is fundamental for achieving business growth and the creation of additional businesses and investment opportunities within the town of Lüderitz in particular and the //Kharas region in general. Therefore, the Lüderitz waterfront expansion programmes will go a long way in terms of transforming Lüderitz - not only as a vibrant student town - but a leading commercial centre in southern Namibia with enhanced tourism appeal over the next few years.

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TO TO VOTE VOTE SMS SMS TOWN TOWNONDANGWA LÜDERITZ to 51500 to 51500 or or Scan Scan QR QR Code Code

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Ondangwa Northern Towns Finalist

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Kenya Kambowe

Namibian Sun

entrally located between Oshana and Oshikoto regions is Ondangwa, the district capital of Ondangwa electoral constituency. Situated 60km from the Angolan border, Ondangwa is a transit town to Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Omusati and the rest of Oshana. Ondangwa is not just a gateway to all the other towns in the northern part of the country, but is a town with a lot to offer visitors with its variety of accommodation facilities. The town has numerous shopping complexes. Popular in the town is the informal business sector represented mostly by the town’s street vendors selling fat cakes, spicy kapana and grilled fish. Ondangwa is a town with excellent and essential

infrastructure that is driving the economy of the town, making it one of the leading towns in the North. Ondangwa also boasts with a state-of-the-art airport. In the transportation of cargo the railway line augments the town’s good road network that connects it to the rest of the country and neighbouring countries like Angola and South Africa. Ondangwa Town Council has embarked on numerous development programmes. In order to improve and address the housing problem, the council has invested N$52 million to secure and service 1 050 erven for residential, business and industrial purposes. Over the next five years, the Ondangwa council plans to avail more

residential plots. The roads in and around the town have been improved and some gravel roads have been tarred. A major project that the council will embark on is the construction of a state hospital on land that was made available to the Ministry of Health and Social Services. The state hospital will complement the private health facilities already available at Ondangwa. The town is also popular for hosting the annual Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition. This annual event gives small business operators an opportunity to showcase their products at the N$14 million trade fair centre to fulfil council’s goal to grow the small business sector.

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THE GATEWAY TO THE NORTH AND BEYOND

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ONDANGWA

Tel +264 65 240 101

ONDANGWA TOWN COUNCIL Email info@ondangwatc.org.na/ceoadmin@ondangwatown.com

www.ondangwatc.org.na

Ondangwa Town Council

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What to see in Ondangwa Kenya Kambowe

ndangwa proudly embrace to be the Northern Towns finalist for the Namibia Town of the year and offer the visiting tourist a very good reason to stay

over. Situated in Oshana Region, Ondangwa, a place of peace and happiness is where one can see and do many things upon a visit. This is because of the various ac-

as the two entered into a partnership agreement which should be strengthened. Tourist are welcome to visit the site as it’s properly fenced off and security guards have been deployed there, but first a stop at council for approval.

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tivities to do and places to see that are provided by businesses run on a good principle. Below are some of the activities and places to find in Ondangwa.

Consolidate Diamond Mines (CDM) museum Situated in Ondangwa’s Oluna area is the Consolidate Diamond Mines (CDM) museum. The site has not been declared a national monument yet but plans by Ondangwa Town Council to transform it into one are progressing well. The site also known as ‘Okaholo’ was used as a recruitment hub for Oranjemund’s CDM northern mi-

grant mine workers during the liberation struggle. It is said that in order for one to be recruited at the time, one had to be fit and strong. It is further said that for men working at Oranjemund enhanced the status of men in their communities as it helped them and their families escape poverty. The site was handed over to Ondangwa Town Council in 2013 by the Oranjemund Town Council

Ondangwa Rest Camp dam The man made dam is situated at the Ondangwa Rest Camp. The history around the dam is that residents of Ondangwa during the apartheid regime dug the dam and in exchange were given food parcels. The ground dam which needs some maintenance give a good view especially to the customers at the Rest Camp as outdoor sitting lovers will surely want to stay longer. According to management at the rest camp, as the dam is enclosed by their fence, they indicated that big plans are underway for them to fully make use of the site to attract more visitors. One can surely make a turn, it’s worth it.

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Activities to do in Ondangwa Swimming at Ondangwa Aquatic Centre. Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball and Netball at Ondangwa Tennis Club. Various sports at Oluno sports ground

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Shopping Gwashamba mall Sun Square mall Time Square mall Three Sister mall Ya Toivo Complex

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LeCabrela Rossini Beer house Legends House Small Park E-Bar

Accommodation establishments Protea Hotel by Marriot Ekamuti Town Lodge Ondangwa Town Hotel Oshoto Pension Hotel Airport Lodge Ediva Guest House Dream Hotels

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Restaurant and lounges

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Ondangwa moving forward with strong infrastructure Kenya Kambowe

s a result of tremendous growth experienced in Ondangwa over the years, the town is moving towards becoming industrialized. Ondangwa which is said to mean ‘the end of Ondonga area’ is situated about 60 km from the Angolan border along B1 road. The town is also known as the gateway to all other northern towns due to its strategic location. Apart from being the transit to Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Omusati and the rest of Oshana, Ondangwa has experienced remarkable growth over the past years which are evident as one will observe these developments upon a visit. Contrary to that, Ondangwa boast with a number of key infrastructures such as the presence of the state-of-the-art Ondangwa Airport as well as the railway line. The railway line which is used for transportation of cargo augments the town’s good road network that connects it with the rest of the country and neighbouring countries like Angola and South Africa. Becoming industrialized is one of the key components of the town’s

five-year strategical plan which is focused on uplifting the town and creating a conducive business and residential atmosphere. The town also has a number of shopping malls which attract visitors or Passerbyers for a stop to either do shopping or for services. Accommodation facilities are also not hard to find in Ondangwa as they are well marketed with clear directions for visitors and residents at affordable prices. Regarding financial banking institutions, the majority of the banks in Namibia can be found in Ondangwa. Also, Ondangwa can be used as an example of a busy town due to

the hundreds of people that move around the town. Regarding movement, the town has a good road infrastructures in place as most of the roads are have been tarred which makes it easy for one to manoeuvre around in a vehicle. Meanwhile both formal and informal economies are present in Ondangwa and they play a huge role in the success of the town in its path of becoming industrialized. Not forgetting the high number of vendors also in the town, one will easily be tempted to make a quick stop at one of them and purchase one or two products.

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PLACES TO VISIT ONDANGWA 17.9052° S, 15.9759° E

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1. Consolidated Diamond Mines Museum is situated in Ondangwa’s Oluna area. Tourist are welcome to visit the site but first stop at Ondangwa council for approval. 2. Ondangwa Rest Camp dam is a manmade dam situated at the Ondangwa Rest Camp. 3. Ondangwa offer many sport activities. Do visit Ondangwa aquatic centre with its modern swimming pool.

1. The National Marine Aquarium is a popular attraction where close-up views of a variety of fish and sharks can be seen. 2. The Kristall Gallerie is home to the world’s biggest quarts cluster crystal. 3. Swakopmund museum offer a unique display with many different themes. 4. The largest collection of reptiles in Namibia can be seen at the Snake Park.

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1. Do not miss the opportunity to see Nile Crocodiles from close-up at the Otjiwarongo Crocodile Farm. 2. Visitors can get fascinating insight into the work that the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) and AfriCat do. 3. Visit the unique dinosaur footprints at Otjihaenamparero near Kalkfeld. 4.The Waterberg Plateau Park is not to be missed.

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1. Have a great view of the Bucht town and ocean from the Felsenkirche church, one of the oldest evangelical churches in Namibia. 2. Crayfish: The annual Crayfish festival held in Lüderitz between April and May is a must attend event for anyone wanting to have a great time in the coast. 3. Wild and free: The Namib Desert horses are one of the tourist attractions found outside Lüderitz. 4. Kolmanskop: The little town rich in Namibian history that can be explored in one visit.

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ituated strategically on the B1 which connects central and northern Namibia, Otjiwarongo has developed rapidly since independence and in the decade between 2001 and 2011 its population increased by 44%. The town is an important service centre for the surrounding cattle and game farms. Otjiwarongo is a convenient base for day trips to the Waterberg Plateau Park and the well-known Dinosaurs Footprints on the farm Otjihaenamaparero. Two non-profit organizations in the Otjiwarongo district, the Afri-

Locomotive 41 saw service for 48 years on the OMEG narrow-gauge railway line.

Cat Foundation and the Cheetah Conservation Fund, have received international recognition for their work to save the cheetah from becoming extinct. The opening of the B2Gold Namibia mine, 70km northwest of Otjiwarongo, has stimulated the town’s economy, while the planned opening of a cement plant is expected to provide further impetus to the town’s economic growth. Another major recent development at the town is the construction of the biggest grid-connected solar power plant in Namibia. The plant delivers electricity to CENORED and supplies 2 500 homes in the town with solar-powered electricity. To meet the demand for residential, business and industrial plots, the Otjiwarongo municipality has entered into land-servicing agreements to provide services for close to 1 000 erven. The town council has also invested millions of dollars to provide water to the town’s informal settlements and the provision of low-cost housing and sanitation in partnership with the Clay House Project. For residents and visitors the town offers all the necessary facilities: two shopping malls, banks and a private hospital, while most major Namibian companies and state-owned enterprises have offices in the town. Roman Catholic Church

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WHY VOTE FOR OTJIWARONGO? One of the fastest growing towns Preferred tourist destination Breathtaking landscapes and excellent game reserves and lodges Home to the rare and endangered species like Cape Griffon Vulture, Dwarf Python, Pangolin, African Wild/Painted Dog, and Spotted Rubber Frog Home to the most Cheetah population in the world Home to Nile river Crocodiles which are second largest reptiles in the world Boast with a multi-cultural and multilingual population making it a home for all Friendly and warm people Gateway to all four corridors of the Country, North, West, East and West.

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What to see in Otjiwarongo Willie Olivier

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www.waterberg-wilderness.com/NMH Archive

or local or international visitors, Otjiwarongo will not disappoint and there are many unique places to visit. Otjiwarongo is a perfect base for visitors traveling along the B1 route, and the friendly town is not only about cattle and game farms. The San and Damara lived in the

Otjiwarongo area for centuries before the ovaHerero settled with their herds of cattle along the Omuramba Omatako and the springs at the foot of the Waterberg. Settlements were also established further west around the springs at Okanjande and at Otjiwarongo which is said to mean “pretty place”

or “place of the fat cattle” - a fitting reference to the area which has supported large herds of cattle for centuries. The “pretty place” do offer unique beauty and scenery and next time you visit Otjiwarongo, visit one or more of the following tourism gems.

Waterberg Plateau Park Rising about 200m above the surrounding thornbush savannah, the Waterberg Plateau is a well- known tourist attraction near Otjiwarongo. The mountain is an erosional remnant of sedimentary rock deposited some 200 million years ago. It owes its name to the spring surfacing at its base. The Waterberg Plateau was declared a national monument in 1956 and as a game park in 1972 for the breeding of rare and endangered game species. The sheer cliffs of the plateau create a natural sanctuary for several game species – including black and white rhino, buffalo, sable and tsessebe. Eland, blue

wildebeest, red hartebeest, kudu and giraffe are among the other species to be seen, while the diminutive Damara dik-dik also occur here. With a checklist of over 200 species, the Waterberg Plateau Park is also a popular birding destination. Activities at the Waterberg Plateau

Park include guided game drives on the plateau, a self-guided overnight hiking trail and wilderness hiking trail. Contact details: Namibia Wildlife Resorts Tel: +264 61 285 7200 www.nwr.com.na

Otjihaenamparero Dinosaur Footprints The dinosaur footprints at Otjihaenamparero near Kalkfeld can be reached during a day trip from Otjiwarongo. The site is not only one of the most accessible, but also one of the most impressive exposures of fossil tracks in southern Africa. Here the threetoed tracks of two dinosaur species

which walked on their hind legs can be seen on exposed slabs of Etjo sandstone. The Otjiwarongo footprints site was declared a national monument in 1951. Contact details: Dinosaur’s Track Guest Farm Tel: +264 67 290 153 www.dinosaurstracks-guestfarm. com

Conserving the world’s dwindling cheetah population

Namibia gas aptly been dubbed the Cheetah Capital of the world and just over a third of the world population of free ranging cheetah occur in the country. Visitors can get a fascinating insight into the work that The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) and AfriCat do. Contact details: CCF can be contacted via thewebsite www.cheetah.org AfriCat can be contacted via the website www.africat.org

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Otjiwarongo Crocodile Farm Situated on the eastern outskirts of Otjiwarongo, the Crocodile Farm has been a popular tourist attraction in Otjiwarongo for many years. Here visitors have an opportunity to get close-up views of the Nile crocodile and gain an insight into the lives of these feared reptiles. Visitors can enjoy a meal in the restaurant where the best crocodile delicacies in Namibia are served: crocodile steaks, ribs and kebabs. The garden is a green oasis and there is also a play park for children.

Contact details:

Pearl-spotted Owlet Louis Pierre Vieillot, born in Haiti was a well-known Ornithologist in the 19th Century and published a number of works on bird species. He named the miniature owl Glaucidium perlatum in 1817, better known to us as the Pearl-spotted Owlet. It is part of the bigger owl family resorting under the sub-species Strigidae and is found in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Namibia it is found in the central northern regions, but is more concentrated on the western side of Otjiwarongo, as it is less fond of thick vegetation yet also avoids the arid region of the Namib Desert. While the Pearl-spotted Owl is not

an endangered bird it is still hard to observe as it tends to only become active in the early evening and night time. For an owl it tends to be a small species with a height below 20 cm. Nevertheless it has a strong build and a somewhat longer tail. Its brown plumage of the upper body sports white spots and it has a white bar on its shoulders, while it’s under body is streaked with brown and white. Its eyes are the typical big and bright yellow of an owl with its face seeming to be speckled in white and brown, whereas the spot of the shoulder often continue on the back of its coat with two further eyespots on its nape. Sexes are much

the same and it is the young bird, which has a lighter colour of coat and more distinguishable eyespots on their napes. Their tails are still short and have to grow out to full length. The owl seems to follow an irregular and rolling flight path and while it seems to call with a regular tu-tutu-tu-tu, it also has a sharp sound of exasperation when alarmed. It feeds on small prey and arthropods. It normally nests in a hole of a tree taking over discarded nests and lays between two and four eggs. Before breeding, the male calls from the nest’s entrance and sings to the wooed female.

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Frank Steffen

flora, which includes species, which are almost unique in this area. More importantly the infrastructure of the immediate area allows visitors to enjoy viewing of small game and birds without having to join extravagant tours. Here are just a few of the many species, which come to mind.

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Small five of O Otjiwarongo

tjiwarongo is probably situated most centrally in what is regarded as the central north of Namibia. With its many guest farms and nature reserves it is destined to not only present big game to the interested visitor, but in fact offers a variety of fauna and

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Hartlaub’s Spurfowl In Namibia most people know what is affectionately known as the Francoline, albeit so that more often than not the sub-species are confused. Specifically the Hartlaub’s Spurfowl - Pternistis hartlaubi also known as Francolinus hartlaubi is endemic to Namibia and Angola and was named after the German physician and ornithologist Gustav Hartlaub. It is a smallish yet stocky bird happily cackling away if in a flock. The birds are equipped with rather large brown-yellow bills for their size, if compared to other species of francolins. The male’s coat is strongly coloured in blotchy brown upper parts and white under-bellies with brown streaks, these becoming discernible in full flight. Its forehead is black with clear white eyebrows. In contrast the female seems a little “dirtier” in that the white bars tend to become a light brownish colour and its grey-brown head being highlighted with an eyebrow tending to be orange to brown. The female does not have the same bar-pattern under its tail as the male. The young bird has a creamier forehead and brown top, while sporting a buffy grey coat with black and white stripes and a creamy and grey belly. The male grows up to 28 cm in height with the female a littSenegal Bush Baby Many Namibians are surprised to hear that the so-called “Nagapie” is found in the Central-Northern regions, especially around the Waterberg near Otjiwarongo. Formally named the Senegalese Bush Bay, its Latin name is Galago Senegalensis, as they originally were discovered in Senegal far to the North of Namibia. These small monkeys are very agile and swing from branch to branch. These tiny primates grow to half the size of a 30 centimetre ruler, with thick fur with a darkish brown colour. Their large eyes permanently seem surprised, but they allow for good night vision. They are strongly built for their size and have long tails, which serve well for balancing. Their hearing is immensely good on account of the four sections of the ears, which can be individually pricked allowing them to listen

le smaller, this remaining on par when looking at size and weight. Most people are unaware of the fact that the Hartlaub’s Spurfowl is only found in South-Western Africa, again tending to be concentrated in larger numbers in the general vicinity of Otjiwarongo with Namibia’s bird population estimated in excess of 25 000 birds. It is not an endangered bird mainly because its

preferred habitat of rocky ground does not pose substantial value to humans and even though it might be consumed, it is not generally hunted as game. The Hartlaub’s Spurfowl feeds on seeds and even insects. The recent mass-appearance of the Armoured Katydid (Koringkriek) served as easy prey. While the male tends to forage, the female mainly digs for food which has led to the female developing a somewhat stronger bill. The reason is found in the fact that the female seems to remain in its territory and it is known to specifically feed on the bulbs and corms of Cyperus-type plants. Many a stroller has been unexpectedly frightened by the sudden flight of the Hartlaub’s Spurfowl and its crack-crack-crack-sound when walking in the bush. They hide in the bush and lay between three and four eggs. out for insects at night, when they hunt. Nag Apies are omnivores and feed on fruit, seeds and nuts, as well as small animals, birds, insects and eggs. These animals are polygamists and reproduce up to twice a year having one or two babies at a time having carried the litter for almost four months. Much like humans, Bush Babies are born helpless and remain dependent on their mothers in the beginning. While the Mothers remain together in social groupings and stick to territories (they spend nights nestled together as a family on branches), the males keep to their own territories, which overlap with those of the females. Young males leave the female clans and form bachelor-groups very similar to young lions. They spend nights nestled together as a family or herd

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routine and may result in copulation between three and five times within nine hours. The gestation period takes of almost half a year and they may raise up to two offspring per year. Birth of a Dik-Dik

is peculiar in that its front legs remain along its body and not stretched out front as happens when other ruminants are born. The mother hides the kit in the bush with a survival rate of roughly 50%. Once the young animal has survived for almost a month the parents tend to send away the older sibling so that the young one may co-habit with its parents until the cycle start anew. Interestingly enough the offspring remain remains infertile when two different species of the Dik-Dik reproduce. Dik-Diks – especially their offspring - are is easy prey for countless predators from small to big cats as well as jackals, hyenas, cape hunting dogs and even eagles, snakes and honey badgers. Dik-Diks give a warning shriek when alarmed almost like a short whistling effect (Zik-Zik, from which the name was originally derived) and they tend to hide when danger looms.

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Dik-Dik This little mammal does not even stand higher than 50 centimetres and while four species are found in Africa, it is the Madoqua kirkii, which is found in the South-Western regions of Africa, i.e. Namibia. They can be distinguished by their fawn colour and the silvery strong buttocks and longer hind legs. They are able to take flight unexpectedly fast for their size. Being herbivores and ruminants, the Dik-Dik feeds off grass, shoots, berries and general foliage and they prefer habitats with good cover but without tall vegetation as they want to be able to observe. They have adapted well and are not dependent on water. Instead they choose areas with moist-carrying vegetation. If the territory turns out to be favourable, Dik-Diks are known to stay in that same area as long as they live. While males make amazing efforts in storming towards each other in a show of force, it never ends with a true physical confrontation, but instead ultimately results in scratching the ground and marking the territory by the victor once one of the two warring parties gives up taking part in this charade. The Dik-Dik remains with his female partner for life thus maintaining a monogamous relationship and they mark their joint territory with dung and urine. Their mating procedure is very detailed courting

males can weigh between 0.7 kg and 1.5kg. The back and the long pointed wings of the adult are usually bluish-black to grey with indistinct darker barring, while the wingtips are again black. The tail is also coloured with the same barring pattern and its rounded end is black with a white tip right at the end of the tail. While its feet are yellow the claws themselves are black as is its

beak with the notch which allows it to break its prey’s neck. Being a bird-eating raptor, the Peregrine Falcon is sexually dimorphic, with the male invariably being up to 30% smaller than the female bird, even though their markings and plumage remain similar. Females can weigh between 0.7 kg and 1.5kg. Adult animals lay up to four eggs with one to two actually being fertilized and resulting in chicks after about a month. The fledglings remain in the nest for another month and a half, before starting to fly and they remain with their parents for another three to four months. The Peregrine Falcon mostly feeds off medium-sized birds preferring to hunt at dusk and dawn, when its prey is active too.

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Peregrine Falcon The Peregrine Falcon (lat.: Falco Peregrinus) is probably the falcon most spread in the world as it literally does not accept any boundaries wandering and migrating between some of the coldest as well as hottest areas. It is actually not a very big bird with a height of 30 to 60 centimetres and a wingspan of 70 to 120 centimetres. What is impressing of this little predator is its immense speed: It can reach speeds in excess of 300 km/h when it dives in for a kill! According to of up to a National Geographic TV programme, the highest measured speed of a peregrine falcon was 389 km/h. The Peregrine Falcon has very distinguishable blue to black and grey back with white bars on it’s under parts. Its head is a clear black. Fe-

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andwiched between the orange dunes of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean and with its moderate climate, Swakopmund has been a popular holiday destination for close to a century. The coastal town is especially popular during the hot summer months when the cool weather draws people from the hot interior to the coast. With its unique combination of dunes, the ocean and southwesterly winds, Swakopmund offers a range of adventure activities that has earned the town the name of ‘Adrena-

line Capital of Namibia’. But it is not only the weather that attracts visitors to Swakopmund. The town is renowned for the many well-preserved national monuments and historic buildings that line its streets. To ensure that the town retains its unique atmosphere, changes and additions to existing buildings, as well as new buildings within the town’s conservation area, as well as major projects outside the conservation area, must be approved by the Aesthetics Committee of the municipality.

Swakopmund’s jetty extends 262m into the ocean.

Sound town planning and prudent financial management by the Swakopmund Municipality has ensured the town’s steady growth and a growing demand for residential, business and industrial erven. From modest beginnings as a harbour settlement, Swakopmund has grown into a bustling coastal town and Namibia’s most popular holiday destination for locals and international tourists. The town’s municipality developed and serviced far more residential erven than the target of 2 500 erven a year.

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What to see in Swakopmund Willie Olivier

NMH Archive / Willie Olivier

Swakopmund was established as a harbour town to handle the increased shipping traffic between Germany and its colony in southwestern Africa after Captain Curt von François established the German presence in Windhoek two years earlier. The Mole was built in 1898/9

but the silting up of the harbour necessitated the building of a wooden jetty in 1905. Work on an iron jetty started in 1914, but only 262m of the planned 640m had been completed when World War I broke out and work on the jetty came to a standstill.

National Marine Aquarium

Kristall Gallerie

An excellent museum – well worth visiting. Displays include the People of Namibia, the flora and fauna of the Namib, reconstructions of Adler’s Apotheke and Dr Weber’s dental practice, as well as an excellent collection of artefacts dating back to the German colonial days. Open: Daily 10:00 to 17:00.

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ith its magnificent setting between the Namib dunes and the Atlantic Ocean and its rich heritage of well-preserve buildings, Swakopmund is Namibia’s premier holiday destination for local visitors and international tourists.

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The gallery is home to the world’s biggest quartz cluster crystal which is 3m wide, 3.5m high and weighs 14.1 tonnes. There is also a replica of a tunnel in the Otjua tourmaline mine and a large collection of minerals and gems. Open: Monday to Saturday: 09:00 - 17:00. The tunnel through the main aquarium provides close-up views of a variety of fish and sharks occurring in the waters off the west coast. Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 to 16:00, Sunday and public holidays 11:00 to 17:00. Closed on Christmas Day.

Snake Park

Swakopmund Museum The largest collection of reptiles in Namibia can be seen at the snake park in Libertina Amathila Avenue. Black and green mambas, boomslang, puff adder, zebra snake, dwarf and Africa pythons are among the snakes on display.

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The gems of the Namib Desert Jessica Botes

NMH Archive / www.info-namibia.com

are not found anywhere else. The area also offers uniquely contrasting landscapes between the cold Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert. The real gems of the Namib Desert are the fascinating, hidden lives of the Little Five. These tiny creatures which are

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visit to the tourism hub of Namibia, Swakopmund, would not be complete without a tour of the Namib Desert’s Little Five. Swakopmund and the surrounding national parks have an abundance of fauna a flora like the Welwitschias, Palmato Geckos and Oryx which

Namaqua Chameleon

According to Barry Lovegrove’s The Living Deserts of Southern Africa, the terrestrial Namaqua Chameleon is a remarkable inhabitant of the Namib. It exploits the normal colour-changing response of chameleons to other ends, turning black to absorb heat in the mornings and late afternoons, and pale in the heat of the day to increase reflection of the sun’s rays. “There are certainly definite advantages to a rapid warm-up: not only can insects and reptiles maximize their daily foraging time, but they can also minimize the time period

in the early morning when they are sluggish and at the mercy of predators. At the end of the day, when the wind dies down, they may once more be able to absorb direct heat

endemic to Namibia, include the Namaqua Chameleon (Chamaeleo namaquensis), Sidewinder Snake (Bitis Perinqueyi), ShovelSnouted Lizard (Meroles anchietae), Cartwheeling Spider (Carparachne aureoflava) and the Palmato or Namib Dune Gecko (Palmotogecko rangei). rapidly and thus extend the late afternoon activity time.” According to Lovegrove, the Namaqua Chameleon is a large, ground-dwelling reptile which uses shade if it is available, but does not seem reliant on it. “Instead, it is armed with a formidable array of adaptations to conquer temperature problems, foremost of which is its remarkable ability to change its skin colour in relation to its temperature control needs. “ “It is presumably also able to replace the moisture lost during this (heating) process from the prey that it catches, for its appetite is ferocious and it may catch and consume a hundred beetles in one day.”

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Cartwheeling Spider Some desert animals display rather bizarre ways of escaping from their predators. As the name might sug-

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gest, the Cartwheeling Spider has discovered the wheel. This endemic spider lives in a burrow about half a metre long

which it digs at an angle into the side of a sand dune which has a slope of more than 15 degrees. According to Lovegrove, the entrance is sealed with a sand-silk trapdoor which not only provides excellent camouflage against the dune sand, but also effectively keeps out most predators. The spider’s impressive cartwheeling tricks are displayed when it makes a dash for safety from one of its chief enemies; wasps. “If it manages to escape the wasp’s initial attack it makes a short downhill dash to build speed and then flips onto its side, curls its legs into semicircles, and thus cartwheels down the sand dune.” The maximum speeds of a cartwheeling spider has been measured at 1,5 metres per second and as many as 44 turns per second.

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operate most efficiently. As the day progresses the Shovel-Snouted Lizard remains active even though

the sand surface temperature may exceed 40°C.” “When the sand becomes too hot for comfort its first response is to stiffen its legs and thus elevate its body as high above the hot sand as possible. Although this behaviour reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the lizard, its feet can still become intolerably hot. To give each foot a few minutes’ respite, it performs a somewhat amusing thermal ‘dance’. Using its especially hardened tail for support, it lifts alternate front and back feet off the sand, replaces them after a few moments, then lifts the opposite pair.”

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Shovel-Snouted Lizard When the sands of the Namib dunes become unbearably hot, the Shovel-Snouted Lizard performs a thermal ‘dance’ by lifting its feet off the sand surface. According to Lovegrove, this lizard does not cool down at night to the same extent as a lizard in a non-sandy habitat because the temperature of the sand into which it burrows remains higher than that of the air. “Nevertheless, it is in no hurry to emerge in the mornings and does so only when the temperature of the sand surface has reached the same level at which it can

in rapid stages by undulating it sideways. When it is not sidewinding on the surface, it sinks into the sand by shuffling its body into the sand

until it is completely buried. Only its eyes are visible and even they are camouflaged to match the sand grain patterns. According to Lovegrove, the sidewinder attracts inquisitive lizards within striking distance of its position by wriggling the exposed tip of its tail. This action simulates an active insect on the dune surface, and invariably lures the lizard to investigate a possible meal. “It is fortunate that their venom is very mild to humans because they are easily trodden upon when they lie submerged in the sand.

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Sidewinder Snake The sidewinding Peringuey’s adder (sidewinder snake) is well-known for its sidewinding habit, during which it propels its body forward

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Palmato Gecko

an elongated, cylindrical body and thin legs. They have large fixed lens eyes without eyelids, which they keep clean by licking with long tongues. “The huge eyes, which look bloodshot, have vertical pupils

which shrink to the size of pinpricks in the bright day light. The body is almost see-through with a variety of colours, patterns and visible blood vessels underneath the skin.” “They get water by licking fog which condensates, from rocks and plants. They also collect their water needs from eating various insects such as crickets, beetles, termites and beetle larvae.”

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The Palmato Gecko is a beautiful nocturnal gecko that lives in burrows during the day and has webbed feet instead of toes. According to Bill Branch’s Field guide to the snakes and other reptiles of Southern-Africa, the Palmato is and unusual gecko with

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