KATIMA MULILO — The Masubia community came together in a colourful celebration of culture, unity, and leadership at this year’s cultural festival, held at the weekend, for the first time in four years. 

Delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare announced the official recognition of Munitenge Gilbert Muhongo Mutwa as Simwine (chief ) of Masubia, ending a leadership vacuum since 2021. 

“The recognition of Simwine Gilbert Muhongo Mutwa should bring to an end the succession dispute,” Ngurare said, calling for a moment of silence for the late Simwine Kisco Maiba Liswani III. 

Under the theme “Vwikuhane Vwetu” (Our Subia), Ngurare highlighted the importance of preserving culture, praising elders for safeguarding traditions and urging youth to uphold Subia values. 

“A person without culture is like a tree without roots. Any wind can knock it off-balance,” he said, drawing applause from a crowd visibly moved by his words. 

The festival showcased traditional attire, dance, local cuisine, and music, drawing participants from Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia. 

Ngurare highlighted the elegance of the “musisi” worn by Masubia women and the community’s pride in their signature dishes such as Inkoko (maize porridge) and Zambezi bream. The Prime Minister praised elders for safeguarding the community’s moral compass and encouraged the youth — “the roaring lions” — to carry forward the torch of Subia identity and heritage. 

“The youth are our future, and that future will only be strong if they are well-versed in our customs, norms and values,” he stressed 

Ngurare paid homage to past Masubia simwine — including Itenge, Ikuhane, Sanjo, Mafwila, Liswani, Maiba, and others — who safeguarded the people and preserved the traditions through generations of struggle and triumph. 

He also highlighted national development, citing the release of the 8th Administration’s performance report and NDP6, calling on all citizens to support Namibia’s transformation. 

“With these documents, we seek to transform Namibia in ways we have not done before. Our resolve to bring back smiles and wipe out tears is unbreakable,” he said. 

He urged the community to actively participate in shaping a better future. -anakale@nepc.com. na