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Oshakati
Located in
Namibia :: Ovamboland
:: Oshakati
Category:
Places :: City
OSHAKATI IS NAMIBIA’S SECOND LARGEST CITY (though town might be a better description) and is also the capital of the far northern region. The town is focused on transborder trade with Angola; indeed, in the Ovambo language, its name means ‘that which is between’. But just to keep things interesting, others believe the name refers to the broadcast tower in downtown which, at 275m, is the tallest freestanding structure in the country.
The town shares an airstrip with nearby Ondangwa and was also a South African Defence Force base during the Namibian War of Independence, also known as the South African Border War or Angolan Bush War. Officially founded in 1966, Oshakati has experienced rapid development since Namibia’s independence in 1990. Today, it’s a busy place and whether you’re looking for open-air markets or modern department stores, you’ll find it all here.
The surrounding landscape is crisscrossed by oshonas (inland water channels), small farmlands and settlements. In times of heavy rains, the town is prone to flooding.
Though most accommodation here is geared for business travellers, you will find something to suit those journeying at a more relaxed pace.
| Address : | Ovamboland, Namibia | ||
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| Cellphone Reception : | Intermittent | Main Cellular Network : | MTC. LEO |
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| Police Telephone : | +264(0)65 223 6000 |
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| Hospital Telephone : | +264(0)65 232 911 |
| Doctor Telephone : | +264(0)65 221 231 |
| Towing Service Telephone : | +264(0)65 230 751 (Jackson Body Works CC) |
| Petrol Type : | LRP/ULP |
| Other Facilities : | Auto Spares. Fast Food. |
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| White Water Rafting | |
| Notes on Activities : | (Some activities may be offered nearby). |
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FOOD:
There are numerous fast-food establishments as well as more formal restaurants.
FUEL:
Take note: Garage or Petrol cards will no longer be accepted as a legal tender for purchase of fuel, spares or repairs in Namibia.
Cash, Debit and Credit cards are legal payment instruments, but many fuel stations choose NOT to accept Debit and/or Credit cards. But generally credit cards are accepted at garages in bigger and touristy towns. Take extra cash with still in case!
TOW-INS:
Tow-in is offered by Auto Mech their cell numbers are +264(0)81 129 4102 or +264(0)81 129 4154.
TYRES:
Tyres 2000, Oshakati also provide a range of tyre services (+264 65 22 2354).
SHOPS & SERVICES:
There is a Wimpy at the Engen garage.
You’ll also find a Pick n Pay, Spar and Shoprite in town.
There is an Internet Café at Shali Complex in the Main Road.
Oshakati and neighbouring Ongwediva have both grown so much that it is now impossible to separate them. Between these two towns there are a few shopping centres and malls where you will find all the major department stores and fast food franchises.
USEFUL NUMBERS:
State Hospital tel: +264(0)65 223 3000.
Be aware of petty thieves or ‘botstotsos’ as the locals call them. Watch out for the distraction technique, while one person engages you in conversation, another steals your gear. Also, be wary of livestock crossing the C46 between Oshakati and Ruacana.
“Oshakati and neighbouring Ongwediva have both grown so much that it is now impossible to separate them. Between these two towns there are a few shopping centres and malls where you will find all the major department stores and fast food franchises. ” - Karin Theron, 2014/03/11
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