Welcome to the captivating story of Jewish heritage in Namibia! Set against dramatic desert landscapes and coastal towns, a rich history of entrepreneurship, pioneering spirit, and community devotion has been woven a story that continues to flourish today.
How Did Jews Arrive in Namibia?
In the late 19th century, as Namibia became a German colony (then known as South West Africa), Jewish traders and entrepreneurs began recognizing the country’s vast economic potential. Estimates suggest that around 100 Jews lived in Namibia during that era, primarily in the coastal town of Swakopmund, serving as key drivers of the local economy.
Key Figures Who Left Their Mark:
- The De Pass Brothers: Jewish merchants from Cape Town who became the first to settle in the region in 1861, founding the Pomona Copper Company.
- Emil Walter Rathenau: Founders of the German mining syndicate and pioneers in early irrigation research.
- Carl Fürstenberg: A German-Jewish banker who helped develop the diamond industry and financed the historical railway line connecting Lüderitz to Kubub.
- Sam Cohen: A prominent Jewish philanthropist often called the "uncrowned king of South West Africa." He held major commercial franchises (General Motors, Caterpillar, and more) and stood as the cornerstone of the local community.
- Civic & Business Leaders: Notable figures included George Kerby (Town Clerk 1919-1949), Mayors Sam Davis and Jack Levinson, and Harold Pupkewitz a global industrialist in engineering, electrical, and financial sectors.
Community History: From the First gue to the Golden Era
Namibia’s first synagogue was built in Swakopmund, but was destroyed by fire in 1916. In 1917, the Jewish community began organizing in the capital city of Windhoek, culminating in the laying of the cornerstone for the Windhoek Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in 1924 (officially dedicated in 1925, where it stands active to this day).
At its peak around 1965, the community numbered approximately 450 members. The synagogue complex expanded thanks to a generous contribution by Sam Cohen, who built a communal hall capable of hosting 400 guests. The community maintained a vibrant Jewish life: Sunday Cheder classes, a nursery school, youth movements, and deep ties to Israel highlighted in 1959 when 160 students voluntarily raised funds to plant trees in Israeli forests.
Did You Know? Places in Namibia bear biblical Hebrew names, such as Rosh Pinah and Rehoboth. These were named by a Jewish mining businessman who sought to commemorate his roots.
Historic Cemeteries & Burial Grounds
Several historic Jewish burial plots exist across Namibia, serving as quiet testaments to the active community that once flourished here:
- Windhoek: The capital's general cemetery features two separate Jewish sections the Old Section and the New Section, positioned on opposite sides of the cemetery grounds. The oldest documented grave in the Old Section dates back to 1921 (5681).
- Swakopmund: Home to a historic Jewish cemetery where one of the most remarkable stories in Namibian history took place (see inset below).
- Keetmanshoop: Formerly home to about 12 Jewish families who established a local synagogue (still standing today, though inactive). A historic Jewish cemetery remains preserved here.
- Lüderitz: A burial plot commemorating the generation of early 20th-century diamond miners and traders.
Historic Mystery: "The Kosher for Passover Grave" in Swakopmund
In the coastal town of Swakopmund during the early 20th century, a unique and poignant story unfolded:
A local Jewish resident passed away and was buried in the town cemetery. He asks to be buried as a jew. Those handling the burial did not know how to read or write Hebrew, nor did they know what symbol to place on his headstone to identify him as Jewish. Searching through the deceased’s belongings, they found a box of Matzot. Recognizing the Hebrew letters as characteristic of his heritage, they carefully carved the words printed on the package "Kosher for Passover" (Kosher LePesach) onto the side of the tombstone. Because they could not read the script, they carved the letters upside down, yet the inscription stood as proof of his Jewish identity.
Years later, a visiting Jewish businessman was told about the peculiar tombstone and discovered the remarkable inscription. Although someone scratched away the letters a few years ago, the tombstone itself remains standing today a silent testament to resourcefulness and Jewish connection in the heart of Africa. The Jewish soul can never die.
Preserving the Flame: The Veteran Community & Historical Book
Over the decades, the resident community grew smaller, leaving around 25 families by the time Namibia gained independence in 1990. Nevertheless, the Jewish spark never faded. Dedicated individuals such as Nahum Gorelick, Laurence Peters, and especially Zvi Gorelick who devotedly led prayers and managed synagogue affairs—kept the heritage alive.
The Community’s Historical Book:
For those interested in exploring the fascinating history and family records of Namibian Jewry, the comprehensive book "Jewish Life in South West Africa / Namibia: A History" is available.
- To order the book, arrange a personal visit, or book a historical lecture, please contact Zvi Gorelick via email: zvi@iway.na.
Jewish Life Today: A New Era of Growth
In 2021 (5782), with the arrival of Rabbi Yosef and Moussia Rahimi and in close collaboration with the local community, Chabad of Namibia was established, bringing renewed vitality to Jewish life across the country.
Today, Namibia is home to around 150 Jewish residents (primarily in Windhoek, with about 30% along the coast), alongside thousands of Jewish tourists and business travelers visiting each year. Chabad serves as a warm bridge connecting long-time residents, new arrivals, and visitors.
What You’ll Find at Chabad of Namibia:
- Shabbat & Holiday Meals: Community dinners served in a warm, welcoming family environment.
- Kosher Catering & Supplies: Local Shechita, Kosher product supplies, and meal deliveries to Swakopmund and safari tour routes.
- Jewish Services: Minyan prayers, Judaica items, Brit Milah arrangements, and Torah classes.
- Seasonal Coastal Services: Holiday events, community Passover Seders, and Kosher supply hubs in Swakopmund during peak travel months.
We are here to assist with all your Jewish needs during your visit or stay in Namibia!
