South African Rule & Independence
After World War I, South Africa took over the administration of the territory — initially as a League of Nations mandate, then as a de facto colony. From 1948, South Africa introduced the apartheid system in South West Africa as well: strict racial segregation, homelands, pass laws, and systematic discrimination against the black population.
Resistance formed in the SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organisation), founded in 1960 under the leadership of Sam Nujoma. From 1966, SWAPO led an armed liberation struggle against the South African occupation — the "Bush War," which lasted over 20 years and was mainly fought in the north (Ovamboland).
Under international pressure and after the end of the Cold War, the first free elections were held in 1989. On March 21, 1990, Namibia became independent — as one of the last countries in Africa. Sam Nujoma became the first president.
Since independence, Namibia has been a stable democracy — a rarity on the continent. SWAPO has governed continuously, but elections are considered free and fair. Press freedom is among the best in Africa.
