Southern Africa - a pictorial story
Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa.
I was born and raised in Southern Africa, specifically born in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), lived in Northern Rhodesia (Zambia), lived in South Africa, in Durban on the south coast Natal province, (KwaZuluNatal), visited Lesotho, visited Swaziland, (Eswani), visited Botswana, visited Mozambique on yearly holidays, visited Nyasaland (Malawi). Didn’t visit South West Africa (Namibia) but my sister lived there and it’s on my bucket list. Also haven’t been to Democratic Republic of the Congo, formerly Zaire, which isn’t Southern Africa but Katanga province is, and it’s on my bucket list. Also haven’t been to Madagascar, Angola or any of the small Indian Ocean islands like Reunion, Seychelles which hug the east coast of Southern Africa. They are also on my bucket list. And lastly, Tanzania, which I haven’t been to, but is on my bucket list. The region is loaded with dramatic landscapes, geological sites, ancient ruins, cave paintings from prehistoric peoples, amazing indigenous peoples, wild animals, and lots more. If you love Africa, it seeps into your soul and stays there forever, urging you to go back, and haunts you with memories of the smells and sights and the food and the people.
having been born in Rhodesia, it is the closest to my heart. I was born in Bulawayo, the second largest city, with wide streets lined with purple flowering Jacaranda trees. Iconic water towers of the power plant loom over a part of the city, a vibrant city center.
I don’t think this photo is real, but it is accurate, and very sad. Once, before independence when it became Zimbabwe, it was the gem of Africa.
The Matopos National Park is just outside of Bulawayo and is a beautiful park of balancing boulders, animals, San Bushman cave paintings and serene landscape of savanna grassland and dense forested bush.
Cecil John Rhodes gravesite on the top of view of the world in Matopos.
Another world known and famous waterfall on the Zambezi z river is Victoria Falls. It is the major tourist attraction for both Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Also a well known ruin is the Great Zimbabwe Ruin, which was built in the 13th century and is the name sake of the country.
The province where all these things are found is Matabeleland province, and most of the indigenous peoples are Ndebele, who are famous for their painted huts.
Zambia was once a British colony called Northern Rhodesia. I lived in a town called Broken Hill. After independence, the name was changed to Kabwe. It is in the middle of the copper belt. Zambia has one of the biggest deposits of copper in the world. There is also large game reserves scattered around Zambia. The one close to the capital, Lusaka, Kafue National Park, has a chimpanzee refuge which is a major attraction. The Chimpanzees were rescued from smugglers taking them from bordering Congo.
The tip of South Africa is really close to Antarctica, so it is not surprising that penguins can be found in the Eastern Cape near Cape Town.
Cape Town is a beautiful city, and the place where in the 1400’s the Dutch Eat India Company Had a resupply fort for their ship. It became the place where the colony started, and over the centuries drifted northward to become South Africa.
Looming behind the city is the well known and distinctive Table Mountain. Sometimes clouds cover the top of Table Mountain, and it is called the table cloth.
another iconic place in South Africa is the big hole in Kimberly. It was the largest man made hole in the world.
The Zulu tribe is probably the most recognizable African tribe in South Africa. The Natal province changed to KwaZuluNatal in 1994 when Nelson Mandela became president and eliminated apartheid. Before that it was Zululand.
Namibia is a desert country. It was a German colony, South West Africa, but was given to South Africa after WW1 when Germany lost the war. It is most well known for the skeleton coast, which runs along the Atlantic coast and got its name from all the shipwrecks that have been swallowed up by the drifting sands of the desert..
One tribe that is found in Namibia is the himba.They are known for their red dyed hair.
Malawi is a very poor country.It used to be a British colony called Nyasaland.
Witch doctor’s are prevalent in all these countries. Sometimes they are tourist attractions, sometimes they are real.
Botswana, home of the San Bushman and the Kalahari desert.
Lesotho is the mountain kingdom. Surrounded by South Africa, it was a British protectorate before becoming independent. It still has a king.
The Ndebele is known for their painted houses and their beadwork. Very colorful.
Although the Democratic Republic of the Congo is not in Southern Africa, the Katanga province juts down into Zambia, and is Southern Africa. Katanga is rich in minerals , and most of their gross domestic product is mining. Malachite is one such mineral, used for jewelry and specimens.
there is so much more in Southern Africa than what I have shown. I have just scratched the surface. Maybe ihis will motivate you to go on safari and see all the wild life, or just go to meet the people. Zimbabwe, Namibia, Malawi are known for friendly people. Go out and explore. You will fall in love.
About the Creator
Guy lynn
born and raised in Southern Rhodesia, a British colony in Southern CentralAfrica.I lived in South Africa during the 1970’s, on the south coast,Natal .Emigrated to the U.S.A. In 1980, specifically The San Francisco Bay Area, California.
Day Will Turn to Night: Astronomers Officially Confirm the Date of the Longest Solar Eclipse of the Century
For stargazers, astronomers, and casual skywatchers alike, 2026 promises an astronomical event that will be remembered for a lifetime. Scientists have officially confirmed the date of the longest solar eclipse of the 21st century, a celestial phenomenon that will turn day into night for several minutes across parts of the globe. The announcement has sent excitement rippling through the scientific community and among enthusiasts who have long awaited a solar spectacle of this magnitude. The Science Behind the Eclipse A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on our planet and temporarily blocking the Sun’s light. While solar eclipses happen somewhere on Earth approximately every 18 months, total eclipses—where the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon—are far less common. What sets the 2026 eclipse apart is its duration. Astronomers predict that the eclipse will last for over six minutes in its longest phase, making it the longest total solar eclipse of the century. The phenomenon is a result of the precise alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth, as well as the Moon’s elliptical orbit, which causes slight variations in apparent size. Dr. Elena Morales, an astrophysicist at the European Southern Observatory, explains: "This eclipse is remarkable not just for its length but for its visibility. For several regions, the Sun will disappear completely, creating a surreal twilight in the middle of the day. It's an excellent opportunity to study the Sun’s corona, which is usually obscured by its brightness." Where and When to Watch The path of totality—the narrow band where the eclipse will be fully visible—stretches across several countries, including parts of the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. Millions of people living along this corridor will experience the full majesty of the eclipse, while a partial eclipse will be visible across much of Europe, northern Africa, and North America. Astronomers recommend planning travel in advance, as areas within the path of totality are expected to see a significant influx of visitors. Hotels, camping grounds, and viewing points are already reporting high demand, as enthusiasts from around the world seek to witness the once-in-a-lifetime event. Safety First: Protecting Your Eyes Viewing a solar eclipse can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Staring directly at the Sun without specialized glasses can cause permanent eye damage. Experts emphasize the use of ISO-certified eclipse glasses or solar viewers for safe observation. Pinhole projectors, telescopes equipped with solar filters, and projection methods can also provide safe and magnified views of the eclipse. Many educational institutions and astronomical societies are planning public viewing events, combining safety with expert commentary to enhance the experience for attendees. Cultural and Scientific Significance Throughout history, solar eclipses have held deep cultural significance. Ancient civilizations often interpreted eclipses as omens or messages from the gods. Today, eclipses continue to captivate human imagination, blending scientific intrigue with awe-inspiring natural beauty. From a scientific perspective, total solar eclipses offer rare opportunities to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona, which is invisible during regular daylight. Researchers can observe solar flares, prominences, and other phenomena, gaining insights that contribute to our understanding of solar physics, space weather, and even the impact of solar activity on Earth’s climate and satellite communications. Preparing for the Experience For those planning to witness the eclipse, preparation is key. Many enthusiasts are setting up travel plans, packing eclipse glasses, cameras, and telescopes, and coordinating with local astronomy clubs for guided viewing. Timing is crucial—the totality phase, though extended in 2026, still lasts just a few minutes, making precise observation essential for both enjoyment and scientific study. Communities along the path of totality are also preparing for the influx of visitors. Local authorities are coordinating traffic management, accommodation, and public safety measures to ensure that the event remains enjoyable and safe for everyone involved. A Rare and Awe-Inspiring Event The 2026 solar eclipse is more than just a scientific event; it is a once-in-a-generation experience that reminds humanity of the vastness and beauty of the cosmos. For a brief moment, day will turn to night, and millions of people across the globe will share in the wonder of the universe’s intricate dance. Whether you are a professional astronomer or a curious skywatcher, this eclipse offers an unforgettable spectacle. It’s a moment to pause, look up, and marvel at the universe—a reminder that even in our modern, digital age, the natural world continues to inspire awe and wonder. Prepare your glasses, mark your calendars, and get ready for the longest solar eclipse of the century. For those lucky enough to witness it, it will be a memory etched in time, a celestial marvel that will be talked about for decades to come.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohi7 days ago in Earth
“Are You Dead?”: A New App Reflects the Loneliness of Young Chinese Living Alone
In China’s rapidly changing cities, living alone is no longer unusual—especially among young adults pursuing education, careers, and independence. But as solo living increases, so do concerns about isolation, safety, and what happens when no one is around to check in. Against this backdrop, a new app with a blunt, unsettling question—“Are you dead?”—has captured public attention and ignited debate. Despite its shocking name, the app is not designed to provoke fear. Instead, it aims to address a practical and emotional gap in modern urban life: how to ensure the well-being of people who live alone, and how technology is stepping in where traditional community networks have weakened. The Rise of Solo Living in China China has witnessed a dramatic shift in household structures over the past two decades. Urbanization, delayed marriage, rising housing costs, and changing cultural values have contributed to a growing number of single-person households, particularly among people in their 20s and 30s. For many young Chinese professionals, living alone represents freedom and self-reliance. It allows flexibility, privacy, and independence from family expectations. Yet this independence often comes with trade-offs: fewer daily social interactions, weaker neighborhood ties, and limited support in emergencies. In megacities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, it is increasingly common for neighbors not to know each other at all. In this environment, concerns about what happens if someone becomes ill, injured, or simply disappears from daily routines have become more pronounced. What the App Actually Does Despite its provocative name, the app’s purpose is surprisingly simple. It functions as a digital check-in system. Users set regular times to confirm they are okay—by tapping a notification or completing a brief check-in. If the user fails to respond after a certain period, the app automatically alerts designated contacts, such as friends, family members, or emergency responders. The stark question, “Are you dead?”, is intentionally designed to grab attention and prompt action. Developers argue that softer language is often ignored, while blunt phrasing cuts through digital noise and encourages consistent use. In essence, the app acts as a safety net, especially for people who live alone and may not have daily contact with others. Why Young People Are Downloading It The app’s popularity reflects deeper anxieties among young adults navigating modern life. Many users say they downloaded it not because they fear the worst every day, but because it provides peace of mind—both for themselves and for loved ones. For parents living far from their children, the app offers reassurance without constant phone calls. For users, it creates a sense of being quietly watched over, without sacrificing independence. Some users have also described the app as a form of emotional comfort. Even a routine notification can feel like a reminder that someone, somewhere, would notice if they vanished from daily life. A Name That Sparked Debate The app’s name has been its most controversial feature. Critics argue that the phrase “Are you dead?” is unnecessarily harsh and reflects a growing desensitization in digital culture. Others worry that such language could amplify anxiety rather than reduce it. Supporters, however, see the name as a reflection of reality rather than a provocation. In densely populated cities where people can go unnoticed for days or weeks, the question is uncomfortable—but relevant. They argue that avoiding blunt language does not eliminate the underlying problem of isolation. The debate highlights a broader tension in tech design: Should apps prioritize emotional sensitivity, or practical effectiveness—even if it makes people uncomfortable? Technology Filling a Social Gap The rise of this app points to a larger issue: technology increasingly compensates for weakened social structures. In the past, extended families, close-knit neighborhoods, and workplace communities naturally checked in on individuals. Today, those informal safety nets are often absent. Apps like this one are not just tools; they are symptoms of a society where digital solutions are replacing human presence. While convenient, this raises questions about whether technology is addressing the root causes of loneliness—or simply managing its consequences. Still, for many users, the app is not a replacement for relationships, but a supplement to modern life realities. Living Alone Does Not Mean Wanting to Be Alone An important takeaway from the app’s success is that living alone is not the same as wanting isolation. Many young Chinese adults value independence but still crave connection, security, and acknowledgment. The app’s routine check-ins, though minimal, provide a structured moment of contact. In a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, even small gestures of recognition can matter. This trend also reflects changing attitudes toward mental well-being and personal safety. Younger generations are more open to discussing vulnerability and using tools that previous generations might have dismissed. What This Says About Modern Urban Life The popularity of an app that asks such a stark question speaks volumes about the realities of contemporary urban living—not just in China, but globally. As cities grow larger and lives become more individualized, people are searching for new ways to ensure they are seen, remembered, and protected. The app’s success suggests that people are willing to engage with uncomfortable ideas if they address real needs. It also underscores the importance of designing technology that is honest about modern challenges, rather than masking them with euphemisms. Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call, Not a Warning While the phrase “Are you dead?” may sound alarming, the app behind it is less about fear and more about care. It reflects a generation navigating independence in a world where traditional support systems no longer function as they once did. Rather than signaling a morbid obsession, the app serves as a quiet reminder of something deeply human: the need to be noticed. In that sense, its blunt question is not about death at all—but about presence, connection, and the reassurance that someone would check if you were gone. As solo living continues to rise, tools like this app may become less shocking and more commonplace—symbols of how society adapts to changing ways of life in the digital age.
By Muhammad Hassan3 days ago in Earth
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.