PM officially opens Olufuko festival Niël Terblanché Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare officially opened the 2025 Olufuko Annual Cultural Festival on Friday, pledging that the government will revitalise, preserve, and promote indigenous knowledge systems across Namibia. Speaking at the event in Outapi, Ngurare said Article 19 of the Constitution obliges the state to protect culture, and that commitment is now being reflected in national policy. “Through the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture, the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development, and the National Heritage Council, we are documenting languages, guarding heritage sites, and empowering traditional leaders,” he said. Ngurare urged those in attendance to continue championing Namibian culture.  “Let Olufuko stand as a symbol of this dedication, a celebration of tradition, a platform for empowering women, and a reaffirmation of our identity,” he said. This year’s festival saw 138 girls take part in the initiation rites, the highest number since the event was revived in 2012.  The girls arrived early last week to learn traditional etiquette, food preparation, and social responsibilities before Friday’s formal blessing by spiritual custodians. Residents of Outapi lined the streets as the young woman, dressed in copper-colored skirts and adorned with shells, processed into the fenced homestead. Ngurare paid tribute to founding president Sam Nujoma, the festival’s late patron, with a moment of silence.  “A nation without culture is like a tree without roots,” he said, quoting Nujoma and noting that the phrase has guided the festival since its beginning. He called on organisers to preserve Olufuko as a national treasure and a space where generations connect.  He also said the government’s vision extends beyond annual ceremonies. The school curriculum is being revised to include indigenous history and oral literature with the same depth as subjects like algebra.  He added that the arts industry would receive new grant funding to support livelihoods in music, craft, and design. “Customary practices will also be tested in the courts to ensure they are safeguarded within constitutional limits and never distorted for personal gain,” Ngurare said. Festival chairperson Selma Asino-Shaumbwako said the record turnout justified the local authorities’ decision to expand dormitories and utilities at the Olufuko Centre last year. The Outapi Town Council estimated that the festival could inject up to N$8 million into the Omusati regional economy through stall rentals, accommodation, and transport bookings. “Tradition meets transformation here. We honour the past, but we also equip our daughters for the future,” Ngurare said. He emphasised the government’s duty to pass this heritage on to future generations. “Without it, we would lose the very root of our nationhood,” he said.

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Ongwediva welcomes Miss Namibia and Miss Teen 2025 Ongwediva welcomes Miss Namibia and Miss Teen 2025 NBC Online Mon, 06/02/2025 - 11:03

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Culture On Display or Culture in Decay? [Namibian] We are reminded by Marcus Garvey: "A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots."

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/Ae//Gams Festival to Elevate Local Talent, Cultural Expression AS the City of Windhoek kicks off the much-anticipated /Ae//Gams Arts and Cultural Festival, which starts today and will run until tomorrow, residents and visitors are in for a celebration of Namibia’s rich cultural experiences. Organised by the City of Windhoek, the festival promises two days filled with traditional performances, artistic expression and cultural exchange under the theme ‘The charm goes beyond what you see’. A parade of culture and tradition The festival will kick off with a parade starting from the TransNamib railway station and making its way to the main festival venue at the City of Windhoek parking area. According to city spokesperson Harold Akwenye, this opening will be followed by a performance by the renowned Namjive Dance Group. “We want people to arrive curious and leave inspired. That’s why we’re keeping some performances a surprise,” says Akwenye. He adds that attendees can look forward to poetry recitals, theatre productions, cultural parades, traditional cuisine, fashion displays and craft exhibitions over the two-day event. Line-up of local talent and creative activities The first day of the /Ae//Gams festival offers a lively mix of cultural and musical performances, starting with a parade and traditional dance showcases from groups such as Namjive, !Aib #Nisasib, Ovaherero Cultural Youth and the Bushmen Cultural Group. The evening will transition into a high-energy concert lineup featuring Peyaa Boy, Arrow Sparks, Mr. Makoya, Ugly Creatures Band and the College of the Arts Band. Day two continues the celebration with a morning fun run and yoga session, followed by engaging activities such as a chess tournament and hands-on craft workshops led by local artisans. Performances throughout the day include cultural showcases from the Amaburuxa, Onambula, and Black Melody groups, and musical sets by Botselo, Ms. Jade & Waldo Keys and Damas Fusion Band. A fashion show presented by MTC Windhoek Fashion Week and a grand closing performance by the beloved group Tswazi’s will wrap up the festivities. According to Akwenye, the festival aims to unify and celebrate Namibia’s cultural richness. “We want to foster pride in our diverse heritage while creating a platform that uplifts local creatives and encourages artistic expression in all its forms.” Returning festivalgoers have expressed excitement about this year’s edition. Calisto Dapilashimwe, who attended the inaugural event last year, describes it as heartwarming: “It’s beautiful seeing so many cultural groups in one place. Everyone was smiling, dancing and just happy.” Lezhel Katuta, who has been a regular attendee, shares similar sentiments. “Every year I come away with something new – whether it’s food, music or just understanding. I hope they bring back the food stands and games this year. And please, let’s have all our favourite artists perform!” Platform for cultural education, economic growth The festival’s chosen theme reflects the city’s commitment to celebrating not just the visual and performative aspects of culture, but also the deeper values that drive them. “This year, the theme speaks to celebrating uniqueness, friendliness and the city’s historic roots,” Akwenye says. Since its inception in 2001, the /Ae//Gams festival has become a staple event in Windhoek’s cultural calendar, drawing large crowds and providing artists with an important platform. It has been lauded for its role in boosting the visibility of the local creative industry while also creating economic opportunities. “The event stimulates local commerce through the sale of arts, crafts and food. It’s also a networking opportunity for emerging and established artists alike,” Akwenye says. He also highlights the festival’s contribution to temporary employment and its use as a vehicle for advocating cultural policy. Historical significance and continued growth Named after the Khoekhoe term for Windhoek, meaning ‘hot springs’, the /Ae//Gams festival honours indigenous heritage while bridging the gap between tradition and modern urban life. Over the years, the event has featured traditional village life recreations, with performances from groups like the Limbagwela Cultural Group, Amaburuxa Cultural Group, Mafwe Living Museum, Mbunza Living Museum and Ju/’Hoansi Living Museum. In past editions, Zoo Park served as a main venue, hosting poetry readings at Post Street Mall, youth entertainment zones, and international cuisine day supported by various embassies. The event also included a youth day full of fun and learning – from face painting and jumping castles to live music and interactive art spaces. This year, the City of Windhoek has emphasised the importance of inclusivity and innovation in its programming. “We want everyone – locals, tourists, elders, children – to experience the depth of our traditions while connecting with today’s artists and thinkers,” Akwenye says. The post /Ae//Gams Festival to Elevate Local Talent, Cultural Expression appeared first on The Namibian.

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Local culture & craftsmanship! 🌍✨ Three local women wave us down on tour, eager to share their beautifully handmade souvenirs—a true taste of Namibia’s rich heritage.

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A young boy on his way to school in rural Namibia, carrying his own chair— a daily reality for many. 🎒🪑✨

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