Dalene Kooper
KEETMANSHOOP- A new cultural initiative aimed at restoring identity and discipline among young Damara men will be launched through the revival of the traditional Damara (ǂNūkhoen) initiation school.
Organiser and spokesperson, Garere Am!gâbeb, said the programme seeks to reintroduce a structured version of an ancient rite of passage that once played a vital role in shaping responsible men within society.
“The school is a revitalisation of an archaic cultural practice of the Damara hunter’s initiation,” Am!gâbeb said.
The initiative is grounded in a three-phase traditional system ǀGōs, ǁHoras, and ǂHurus which historically guided boys into adulthood through teachings centred on discipline, respect, and social responsibility.
Am!gâbeb explains that reviving this system is a direct response to the growing need to restore cultural values and address modern challenges affecting the boy-child.
“This is about reconnecting young men with who they are,” he added. “We are reviving indigenous knowledge systems and presenting them in a structured way that speaks to today’s realities.”
The school operates under the banner of ǂNūkhoeb, a fraternity of Damara men dedicated to cultural preservation and unity.
The group is also known for launching the ǂNūkhoeb Unity Shirt in 2023, a symbol of pride and shared identity among members.
Am!gâbeb affirmed that the training will be led by a team of experienced cultural practitioners and experts. The main instructor is R.I. Gaob Kawango, a respected culturalist and praise singer, assisted by Chief Hans Axasi Eichab of the !Ainîdaman Traditional Community, a recognised Damara historian and Khoekhoegowab expert. The programme will also feature contributions from academics, industry leaders, and community gatekeepers, particularly for specialised topics requiring technical expertise.
Upon completion, the initiates will receive an official certificate and formal recognition during a valedictory ritual ceremony. They will also become eligible to progress through the traditional phases of initiation.
However, Am!gâbeb noted that the programme’s impact goes beyond certification.
“Our goal is to produce culturally grounded, disciplined, and socially responsible young men,” Am!gâbeb continued.
He added that the initiative should be seen as both a cultural restoration project and a nation-building effort.
The initiation school aims to preserve cultural heritage while equipping the participants with the values and skills needed to navigate society.
The programme is open to male applicants between the ages of 16 and 35. To apply, candidates must complete an official application form, submit a copy of their identity document, and pay a non-refundable application fee of N$200. Applications will only be considered once all required documents and proof of payment have been submitted.
The 2026 intake will serve as a pilot programme, primarily targeting Windhoek-based initiates.
Registration is open from 13 April 1 May 2026. The programme will run from May to August, with sessions scheduled every Saturday from 14h00 to 16h00. A graduation ceremony is planned for September, with the exact date yet to be confirmed.