Knowledge in psychology is based disproportionately on evidence from western, industrialized samples, non-representative groups in terms of global population. Models built only on such samples may be limited in generalizability. The current project seeks to improve this imbalance in the domain of psychological disorders. Specifically, we aimed to validate an inventory of disorder symptoms for use in two African languages, and provide baseline data on their prevalence and pattern of associations in Namibia including a comparative assessment of among three language groups and with data from the United States. This allows us to build on current knowledge and generate new hypotheses about more universal versus more culturally specific aspects of disorder symptoms. Method: Surveys measuring psychological disorder symptoms, personality traits, well-being, physical health, religiosity, and multiple demographic indicators were collected by oral interview or written survey in three languages. The analytic sample includes 645 Khoekhoegowab-speakers from throughout Namibia, 678 Oshiwambo-speakers from far-northern Namibia, and 589 English-speakers from Windhoek and surrounding areas (Age 18 to 70; M = 33.28; SD = 11.13; 55% female). The study will also explore how domains of routine mental illness relate to personality characteristics, including personality dimensions defined by the earlier lexical study of personality in Khoekhoegowab. A follow up study will include qualitative interviews to explore local conceptions of serious mental illness, how these are seen to relate to routine (depression, anxiety, substance abuse) mental illness, and the cultural meaning of these domains. Ultimately this mixed-methods two-part study is intended to (1) establish a better understanding of mental disorder symptoms in Namibia, in order to better inform local psychologists and to provide a solid basis for future work improving mental health services in the country; and (2) to provide evidence to better distinguish between universal versus culturally specific rates and patterns of mental health symptoms.