BERSEBA – President Nangolo Mbumba has implored the Nama clan to remain vibrant and relevant in a fast-changing world in efforts to celebrate culture and preserve it for future generations.
“Our culture is a treasure chest of customs, rituals and beliefs that have been passed down through generations,” he said in a statement read on his behalf by Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah during the 13th IHai-IKhaua Traditional Authority festival in Berseba on Saturday.
The President said traditional leaders in particular, can contribute to enhancing national cohesion, harmony, peace and unity among their communities.
In addition, he informed his audience that the government has created community courts in various traditional communities in order to adjudicate both criminal and civil cases.
“Our communities should utilise these institutions to promote law and order to maintain peace and harmony in the communities,” he advised.
The President also strongly advocated that politics should never play with people’s lives, saying: “Government can only implement recommendations coming from traditional authorities based on your recommendations when it comes to the succession of leadership, and the notion that we enforce it should be regarded as null and void”.
He urged members of the IHai-IKhaua Traditional Authority to carry the torch of their ancestors and uphold the traditions and values they cherished.
Mbumba said the cultural festival does not only promote the cultural norms, values and identity of the IHai-IKhaua Traditional community, but also reflects the cultural heritage and diversity of the people of Namibia.
“This cultural festival truly demonstrates that Namibia is the land of contrasts, with different ethnic groups, different languages, cultures and traditions. Yet we keep and maintain our loyalty to one country, our peaceful and united Namibia.”
In his contribution, the IHai-IKhaua Gaob Johannes Isaack viewed cultural festivals as the showcasing of traditions, practices, values, events, communications and achievements of a particular community.
Also speaking during the event, Gaob Immanuel /Gaseb, chairperson of the Council of Traditional Leaders in Namibia, said cultural festivals have become one of the most effective vehicles for ensuring culture will strengthen
communities.
“They are wonderful celebrations that provide such a sweet atmosphere of happiness and enjoyment of our cultural diversity,” he noted.
The traditional authority leader applauded the IHai-IKhaua leadership for their interest in nationhood.
“This unity should be strengthened further to ensure that the governing body is founded on a solid foundation that will last for generations to come,” he said.
Vice-chairperson of the Nama Traditional Leaders’ Association, Gaob David Hanse, meanwhile called on the traditional authority members to jealously guard against the little they retained of their proud culture and customs.
“Let us celebrate our bind and commitment towards each other with our hearts and minds at this festive occasion,” he said.
-sklukowski@nepc.com.na