Culture lays a strong foundation

Uukwambi chief Herman Ndilimani Iipumbu has urged fellow Namibians to embrace the importance of identifying themselves with their respective totems, while adding respect for culture lays a strong foundation. He said a nation without culture is pliant to change and ends up adapting to whatever comes, which could be good or bad for it.Iipumbu, who identifies with the omutundu (zebra) totem, made the remarks while addressing the official opening of the Oshakati Totem Expo on Sunday. He said totems and cultures are being practiced worldwide.The 2018 expo started on Friday and sees 15 totem groups (omapata) showcasing their sacred object or symbol, which serves as an emblem for them, while over 250 exhibitors are offering various products and services. “As leaders of traditional authorities, we are feeling proud that there are activities conducted at national level to revive our cultures and traditions, especially by teaching the youth and children. “We believe that a nation without culture is a lost nation. All these modern items we adore too much are produced by other nations in the world, in accordance with their cultures and traditions and that is why we are depleting our own cultures,” Iipumbu said.He said totems are natural objects or animals that are believed to have spiritual significance and which are adopted as an emblem. He said people must know their totems and the norms attached to them.Urban and rural development minister, Peya Mushelenga, who identifies with the omukwanangobe (cattle) totem said the Oshakati Town Council has gone the extra mile by choosing totems as a stepping stone towards restoring cultural identity in societies. He commended the town council for opting to host the totem expo, where businesses also have the opportunity to showcase their products and services. “These practices make people appreciative of their heritage. It provides them with a broader component of the people with whom they are related to by blood. “The Oshakati Totem Expo further aims at closing the gap between cultural values and modern practices, as we know that most of our young people can easily get lost in cultural conglomeration, particularly those that are made up of imported cultures,” Mushelenga said. He said he was informed that the number of exhibitors at this year's expo has increased from 190 to over 250. Mushelenga said next year he would like to see more exhibitors from all over the country taking part, in order to stimulate economic growth and development.The expo also shares cultural teachings through oshungi (storytelling sessions), where various cultural experts are invited to share their cultural knowledge.ILENI NANDJATO?ROOTS: Uukwambi chief

Culture lays a strong foundation

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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Culture lays a strong foundation

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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