Windhoek

views updated May 21 2018

Windhoek Capital and largest city of Namibia, situated some 300km (190mi) inland from the Atlantic at a height of 1650m (5410ft). Originally serving as the headquarters of a Nama chief, in 1892 it was made the capital of the new German colony of South-West Africa. It was taken by South African troops in World War 1. In 1990, it became capital of independent Namibia. An important world trade market for karakul sheepskins, its industries include diamonds, copper and meat-packing. Pop. (2002 est.) 194,300.

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