Zebaldt Ngaruka
The Ovambanderu community will pay homage to their fallen hero, Chief Kahimemua Nguvauva, also known as ‘Hiakungairi’, this weekend in the Garden Town of Okahandja.
Ovambanderu Traditional Authority (OTA) spokesperson Uazenga Ngahahe said preparations for the historic event are in full swing, and different commandos in the country are working around the clock to deliver nothing short of a memorable occasion.
“This is an annual event, and all the Ovambanderu people know its significance. Thus, preparations are done in advance,” he emphasised.
This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme “Empowering traditional leaders is of vital importance to the development of Namibian society”.
Ngahahe emphasised that traditional leaders such as Kahimemua played a significant role in the country’s war of national resistance and subsequently, the liberation struggle.
“Hiakungairi fought the Germans over this country’s freedom. He was a very brave and tough man who refused to give the land to the Germans, and was killed in a horrific manner.”
The spokesperson added that the role Chief Hosea Kutako and others played during the country’s liberation struggle led to today’s independence.
He noted that Vice President Nangolo Mbumba, Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, urban and rural development minister Erastus Utoni and other traditional leaders will attend the events, set to end on Sunday.
“We will also have drill competitions from different commandos, as there will be trophies for winners as well as other prices,” he announced.
Ngahahe said the OTA traditional priest is already in Okahandja to welcome the community.
Speaking from Omimbonde Vitano, which are the headquarters of the OTA, Gideon Muvangua – who is in charge of organising horses for the event – said about 19 horses from Epukiro will be in Okahandja.
“We are ready. All horses from as far as Otumbonde, Okovimburu and Kalkpan gathered at the headquarters, and are well- prepared for the event,” he enthused.
Chief Kahimemua was wounded in May 1896 in Otjunda, and later surrendered to the German colonial soldiers.
Accused of organising the uprising against the Germans, he was sentenced to death and executed on 12 June 1896, together with Nikondemus Kavikunua in Okahandja.