Heather Erdmann
Rehoboth – After years without traditional leadership, this year’s Sam !Khubis commemoration is set to mark a turning point as it takes place under a Kaptein, restoring a central pillar of identity for the Baster community.
The 111th anniversary of the 1915 event will be observed under the leadership of Herbert George “Jacky” Britz, following his inauguration as the 8th Kaptein of the Rehoboth Baster Gemeente Traditional Authority on 24 April 2026. His formal recognition by the Namibian Government ended a long-standing leadership dispute following his election in 2021.
Sam !Khubis located about 80 kilometres south-west of Rehoboth, remains a defining site in the community’s history. In May 1915, Baster families faced possible annihilation during a confrontation with German colonial forces, an event that continues to shape their identity and annual remembrance.
The Kaptein’s office described Sam !Khubis as the community’s Gelofte, or vow, rooted in faith, identity and survival. “Sam !Khubis is our Gelofte… today it means faith, identity and promise. We return every year to keep that promise,” the office said.
The main commemorations will take place from 7 to 8 May at Sam !Khubis, preceded by activities in Rehoboth.
On 7 May, proceedings will begin with a brass band procession at the Hermanus van Wyk Memorial Hall, followed by the lowering of the mourning flag and the raising of the Namibian and Baster flags. A torch ceremony will then see bearers depart for the historic site.
A church service at the Paulus Congregation will include remarks from Rehoboth Mayor Jackie ‡Khariseb, Kaptein Herbert George “Jacky” Britz, clergy and community representatives. The programme will also include the lighting of the vow candle, recitation of the Gelofte and wreath-laying ceremonies before a procession to the Kaptein’s tree and onward to Sam !Khubis.
At the site, the evening programme will feature a guard of honour, cultural performances, historical reflections and speeches by traditional and religious leaders.
On 8 May, the commemoration will begin at 04h00 with a mock attack reenacting the 1915 conflict, followed by morning prayers for women and children.
The main ceremony will include a keynote address by the President of the Republic of Namibia, alongside traditional and religious leaders. The programme will conclude at the gravesite with the final recitation of the Gelofte, wreath-laying, a salute, a moment of silence, flag lowering and the extinguishing of the Festival Flame.
Faith, identity and national relevance
Beyond its historical roots, the commemoration continues to serve as a platform for cultural preservation and identity. “A nation without roots cannot grow… If they don’t know Sam !Khubis, they won’t know who they are,” the Kaptein’s office noted.
Former politician Ben Amathila also emphasised unity, saying Namibia can achieve great things “if we stand together”, while calling for stronger national cohesion.
Leaders have further stressed that Sam !Khubis is not only a Baster historical event, but part of Namibia’s broader history of survival and remembrance.
“This isn’t just remembrance, it’s leadership renewing the Gelofte, linking 1915 to our responsibility today,” the Kaptein’s office said.
Community leaders have encouraged Namibians to engage with the commemoration, describing it as a reflection of faith, unity and resilience that continues to shape the country’s shared future. – herdmann@nepc.com.na
Photo: Heather Erdmann