The Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa began mission work in Namaqualand in the 1880s, and the first congregation in German South West Africa was established in 1898.[1] The DRCN became an autonomous entity in 1957, when it held its first synod.[3]
The DRCN has 44 congregations, 22500 members (including children) and 60 pastors.[1] The moderator is Schalk Pienaar,[4] and the general secretary is Clem Marais.[5]
In 2015, the NGK voted to recognise same-sex unions. This decision did not extend to the DRCN, since Namibia does not recognise same-sex relationships.[7] The General Synod also resolved to ordain LGBT clergy, and to remove the requirement for them to be celibate.[8] The DRCN continues to hold to the celibacy requirement, and has stated that they "undertake to admit theological candidates who have a same-gender sexual orientation and who live celibate to the ministry."[5]