Richard and his wife Jane had visited Namibia in 2002 and 2006. They found it to be a country full of surprises but seldom in the news.
In 1884 it became a German protectorate In 1920, after the end of the First World War the country was mandated to the UK under administration from South Africa There were a considerable number of conflicts in the country in the 20th century before finally gaining independence in 1990. Since then there have been several fair elections. Tourism is now a major contributor to Namibia's economy.
The country has a population of some 2.4 million with a land mass 3 times that of the UK. It is a very dry country. There are some storage dams but isolated communities have to rely on groundwater. Mining is an important contributor to the economy. Diamonds and Uranium mining are the largest of the mining industries.
In all Richard and Jane travelled some 4000 miles exploring this fascinating and beautiful country. Richard then showed a film of their travels.
The Club’s vote of thanks was given by Theresa Douglas.