|
The name Oshikoto is derived from its most prominent natural heritage site, the Otjikoto Lake, located near the town of Tsumeb. The Region is strategically located to attract economic activities and opportunities as it stretches north wards, connecting the communal land and southern commercial area.
In terms of Geographical location, Oshikoto is one of the only three regions without either a shoreline or a foreign border. It borders the following regions; Ohangwena in the north, Kavango West in the east, Otjozondjupa in the south east, Kunene in the south west, and Oshana in the west
Oshikoto is known for its oldest copper mine situated in one of its vibrant town of Tsumeb. The underground water which is found in the area of Tsumeb and Oshivelo makes Oshikoto Region to be a champion of fruits and vegetables production.
Oshikoto region is home to the Etosha National Park, one of the famous tourist attraction sites which offer spectacular wildlife viewing and the beautiful Adoni plateau.
Agricultural activities, both communal and commercial in the area have opened up a window of hope for crop and livestock farming in the region.
Population and Demography
According to Namibia Population and Housing Census of 2023 as conducted by the Namibian Statistic Agency (NSA), Oshikoto region is the Region is one of the most densely populated areas in Namibia, with a total population of 257,302 and a population density of 6.7 persons per square kilometer. About 82 percent of the population of Oshikoto region lives in rural areas.
Landscape
The landscape of Oshikoto according to Agro-Ecological zones of the country are Kalahari Sand plateau with deep sands on the northern area with the average growing period ranging from 61-120 days and Kalkveld on the southern and western area (Tsumeb and Etosha) with the average growing period ranging from 61 to 120 days. There are two major drainage system in the Region namely Cuvelai at the north west stretched from Angola to Etosha pan and the Omulamba which is stretched from Otavi highlands and drainage to Etosha pan.
Climate
Oshikoto region, like any other region in Namibia, is hot, semi-arid with average annual rainfall ranging from 400mm to 550mm. The rainfall decreases from northeast to south west with Tsumeb area receiving the highest amount. Average annual temperature is ranging from 22.6 to 30 °C during winter and 30 to 37°C during the hot months. Tsumeb has the lowest average annual temperature of 22.0 °C. The lowest average temperatures in the year occur in June to July, when it is around 16.9 °C.
|
