Literature

Namibia appears to be Africa's unloved stepchild when it comes to literature. Why is Namibian literature so little known and discussed? Mostly because Namibian literature is still in its early stages. There has been a lot of poetry, drama, and autobiographical writing published, but not much fiction. In any case, Namibian writing frequently draws inspiration from other literary movements, such as postcolonial literature in Nigeria or Kenya. Afrofuturism is also growing in popularity.

Before independence, Namibian literature was essentially an extension of the South African or German literary scenes. Namibian writers have previously published works in other languages, such as Afrikaans, German, Otjiherero, Damara/Nama, and some San languages. Following independence, there was a movement to publish "Namibian" books and create a true "Namibian literature." That impetus has since subsided. The majority of indigenous language literature consists of traditional tales, short stories, and novels written for schoolchildren. Published fiction, poetry, and autobiographical writings are available in both English and Afrikaans.