SWAKOPMUND – Namibians should embrace the unique cultural heritage embedded in the country’s diversity, which binds the nation. 

This observation was made by Erongo governor Neville Andre during the official opening of Namibia Cultural Week, which started in Swakopmund on Monday.

Namibians from different cultures and backgrounds joined in song and danced on the day to celebrate the country’s opulent heritage. 

This year’s event is being held under the theme, ‘Heritage and Culture: A Rock-Solid Foundation’, with a particular bias for Namibian sign language. The celebrations will continue until Friday.

“It is indeed an honour to see that we gather, as Namibians, to celebrate and embrace the rich cultural and historical heritage of our beloved country. I am filled with pride as I see the incredible displays of diversity and memories from our past, which serve as a testament to the remarkable journey we have traversed. In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy for us to become disconnected from our roots. This celebration serves as a reminder to pause, reflect and rediscover our cultural identity. Namibia’s heritage is a mosaic of various ethnic groups, traditions, languages and beliefs,” a thrilled Andre said. 

He added that Namibians can use the celebration to show appreciation for each other’s cultures and traditions that contribute to the development of the nation. 

He then appealed to all Namibians not to limit themselves but to embrace their shared heritage with open hearts and minds. 

“Let us use this week as an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, learn from one another, and celebrate our differences as strengths that unite us. By doing so, we can foster a sense of inclusivity, harmony and pride in our shared heritage,” the youthful governor continued. 

Also speaking at the celebrations was Erongo education director Erenfriede Stephanus, who said cultural heritage is an important stepping stone in development.

She said it shapes the future and provides a sense of belonging. 

“We cannot afford to lose it. It is priceless,” Stephanus told the assembly. 

Nadine Phiri, a curator at the Swakopmund Museum and member of the Swakopmund culture committee, indicated there will be activities across the country during Heritage Week, with at least one activity every day in Windhoek and Swakopmund.

“The event is aimed at promoting the safeguarding and protection of all cultural heritage in Namibia, irrespective of religious or ethnic identity, recognising that all forms of cultural heritage in Namibia are valued as equal in importance,” Phiri stated. 

Phiri then called on every Namibian to participate in the week-long activities by attending events, dressing up to reflect their cultures and traditions or creating special, unique Namibian cuisines. 

- edeklerk@nepc.com.na