At around 1652, the Dutch had already made their mark in search of spheres of influence in the Cape, South Africa. At this time, Namibia, then South West Africa, was largely peaceful and a home to agricultural and pastoral communities mainly the San, Herero, Owambo, Damara and Nama.

Through a long, bitter and protracted struggle for national independence and freedom, SWAPO made a name for itself Nationally and Internationally. It became a Political Party of the people.