Forum:Territory application/AR107 - Obwondu
- Please fill in the information below to make a territory request.
 | Territory ID and proposed name |
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| The Territory ID (from OpenGeofiction:Territories, e.g. AR123a) and proposed name of the country |
TA253 AR107 - Obwondu
 | Physical geography |
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| An overview of climate, topography and landscape of the country. It is advised to also create a sketch, you can add a link to this (hosted on imgur or similar) |
Nestled in the heart of central Tarephia, the nation of Obwondu boasts a diverse landscape that captivates exploring visitors and locals alike. The country's topography is a mesmerizing tapestry of rolling hills, thick vegetation, and expansive savannas.
Due to surrounding Tarephian Lake "D", the tropical lushness extends approximately 250 kilometers inland before gradually transitioning into savanna. As one moves further north, the landscape becomes increasingly arid, eventually giving way to dry savanna that borders the Great Helion Desert directly to the north. These sweeping expanses are dotted with native trees and teem with wildlife during the wet season. As one travels southward, the landscape transforms, giving way to undulating hills that echo the picturesque countryside of neighboring regions.
The climate of Obwondu is primarily tropical, though it exhibits some diversity due to changes in elevation. This tropical climate seamlessly blends with savanna characteristics in certain regions, creating a unique environmental tapestry. The lowlands to the north experience hot conditions year-round, while the highland areas enjoy cooler temperatures, particularly at night. The country observes two distinct seasons: a wet season from April to October and a dry season from November to March.
The southern highlands are characterized by steep slopes and deep valleys. This region is home to Obwondu's highest peak, Mount Mwangati, which stands at an impressive 2,692 meters above sea level.
Obwondu's eastern border is defined by a striking rift valley, complete with hot springs and dormant volcanoes. This geologically active area provides fertile soil for agriculture, making it one of the country's most productive regions.
The nation's landscape is further enriched by pockets of dense tropical rainforest, particularly in the south. These verdant woodlands are bastions of biodiversity, harboring countless species of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in Tarephia.
From the golden savannas of the north to the mist-covered hills of the south, Obwondu's varied topography and climate create a land of stark contrasts and breathtaking beauty, offering a microcosm of Central Tarephia's natural wonders within its borders.
 | Human geography |
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| A brief description of the territory demographics, economic development, land occupation, infrastructure and mapping style |
The Republic of Obwondu, a small landlocked nation with access to one of the great lakes in central Tarephia, boasts a diverse population of approximately 47 million inhabitants. The country's demographics reflect a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, with the Mbongi people forming the largest group at 58%, followed by the Lumwani (22%), Nguzo (9%), and various smaller tribes making up the remaining 11%.
Obwondu's economy is primarily agrarian, with 60% of the workforce engaged in subsistence farming. However, recent discoveries of copper and cobalt deposits in the country's eastern regions have sparked growing interest from international mining companies. The capital city, Nadoba, serves as the nation's economic hub, hosting a burgeoning tech startup scene that is gradually diversifying the archaic economy.
Land occupation in Obwondu is characterized by a mix of traditional communal lands and modern private ownership. The government has implemented land reforms to balance these systems, aiming to promote agricultural productivity while preserving cultural heritage. Urban areas, particularly Nadoba and the second-largest city, Lufemba, are experiencing rapid growth and suburbanization.
Infrastructure in Obwondu is developing but remains a challenge. A newly constructed highway connects Nadoba to Lufemba, significantly improving transportation. However, rural areas still rely heavily on unpaved roads. The national power grid only reaches 34% of the population, with efforts underway to expand coverage through solar mini-grids in remote regions. Internet penetration stands at 28%, concentrated mainly in urban areas.
Obwondu's mapping style will be generally African, as appropriate for a developing nation.
 | History & culture |
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| A brief description of the intended culture and language |
The Obwondu region was originally inhabited by Lakawian and Nebwontic-speaking farmers and herders, but by 1100, Mawunga speakers dominated the south. Gharbiyan traders arrived in the 1790s, followed by Lentian explorers in the 1830s. This led to the Lentian Protectorate of Obon, but the Mbongi Obon monarchy declined after the War of the Hills in 1858. A second kingdom briefly emerged before being overthrown in 1961 and replaced by a republic.
Obwondu culture emphasizes community and family bonds, with clans led by respected elders. The Mbongi people are known for their coming-of-age ceremonies and artistic expressions like bead-work, wooden sculptures, and music. They practice a spirituality centered around the supreme creator god Ubu and a pantheon of lesser deities. Agriculture is key, with taro and millet as staple crops.
The Mawunga language is tonal, with a rich vocabulary related to agriculture, nature, and spirituality. It has an intricate system of honorifics, a unique counting system, and a complex verb system. The language uses the Ngume script, a logographic system with phonetic elements. Efforts are being made to promote Mawunga in education and media to preserve its cultural significance in modern Obwondu society.
 | Past mapping |
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| To support your request provide links to areas of OGF mapping which showcase your mapping skill. Mapping relevant to the requested theme & geography is especially useful | |
| The {{coord}} template can optionally be used to link to the OGF map - it results in a nice formatted link. Or you can paste in a URL. |
I have mapped and set up the macro and micro of the Filipino-esque island nation of 
Tanay, and before that in Drull Free State.
My wish is to be the change in getting to see more African-inspired nations in OGF.
| Username & date |
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| Sign and date the application by typing four tildes like this: ~~~~ |
Panzerbyte (talk) 16:50, 5 August 2024 (UTC)
 | Discussion |
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| Discussion for clarification & decision |
- Hi, could you add a sketch map of your plans please. Thanks/wangi (talk) 20:40, 5 August 2024 (UTC)
- Hello wangi, here's the rough sketch of my plans: https://ibb.co/qMjpPc5 - thank you, Panzerbyte (talk) 18:48, 6 August 2024 (UTC)
- Thank you. We've not had quick responses to TA applications recently. You might want to consider AR107∈⊾ instead? The area would work for both African and Dutch. Granted the territory to the east currently has originality issues (already raised). Thanks/wangi (talk) 20:53, 6 August 2024 (UTC)
- Hi again wangi, thank you for your swift reply. I've taken a look at AR107 and it does indeed work well like you've stated for both African-esque and Dutch, albeit that the territory is much less isolated (landlocked) than TA253, but would make for something interesting for sure. And so hereby I accept your proposal for AR107 instead. Thank you, Panzerbyte (talk) 17:57, 7 August 2024 (UTC)
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Territory application approved |
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| AR107 approved. Thanks/wangi (talk) 21:36, 7 August 2024 (UTC) | |
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