Jehovah’s Witnesses have been active in Namibia since 1929. However, the minority-rule government of South Africa, which ruled Namibia by virtue of a League of Nations mandate, restricted their religious activity. From the early 1950’s until the late 1970’s, the authorities did not allow whites in black areas without a government-issued permit, thus limiting efforts of foreign missionaries. During those years, the Witnesses faced stiff opposition from religious leaders and local authorities for sharing their religious beliefs with others.

On March 21, 1990, Namibia gained its independence from South Africa. Under the new constitution, Jehovah’s Witnesses gained greater freedom in their religious activity. In 2008, they obtained legal registration. Jehovah’s Witnesses in Namibia are grateful that they are free to practice their religious beliefs.