Understanding Namibia: The Trials of Independence

by Henning Melber

Since independence in 1990, Namibia has witnessed only one generation with no memory of colonialism - the 'born frees', who voted in the 2009 elections. The anti-colonial liberation movement, SWAPO, dominates the political scene, effectively making Namibia a de facto one-party state dominated by the first 'struggle generation'.While those in power declare their support for a free, fair, and just society, the limits to liberation are such that emancipation from foreign rule has only been partially achieved. Despite its natural resources Namibia is among the world's most unequal societies and indicators of wellbeing have not markedly improved for many among the former colonized majority, despite a constitution enshrining human rights, social equality, and individual liberty.This book analyses the transformation of Namibian society since Independence. Melber explores the achievements and failures and contrasts the narrative of a post-colonial patriotic history with the socio-economic and political realities of the nation-building project. He also investigates whether, notwithstanding the relative stability prevailing to date, the negotiation of controlled change during Namibia's decolonization could have achieved more than simply a change of those in control.

Genres: Namibia

318 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 12, 2015

Reviews

[Brian Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful analysis of post-independence Namibia, by author who was in SWAPO. Provides understanding of the political, economic, social choices that shape what Namibia is today - one party state, with high levels of inequality. Sophisticated arguments and analysis, but the writing can be repetitive and can bog down. Worth wrestling with prose from time to time to gain understanding of country.

[Cajo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives a good overview of the post-independent history of Namibia. The academic style of writing brings in quality.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will be of interest to anyone visiting Namibia but also to people trying to understand current So Africa, Zimbabwe, Angola post-independence and struggles post-liberation. The author, a white Namibian, was a member of SWAPO and now is a political scientist living in S Africa. A critical appraisal of present-day SWAPO and a thoughtful discussion of the difficulty in moving from being a liberation movement to democratic governance.