Africa-Press – Namibia. Chief of Uukwambi Traditional Authority, Ndilimani Herman Iipumbu, said cultural standards maintain society’s equilibrium.
Hosting the Totem Expo serves as a reminder of this. Iipumbu made these remarks recently while addressing the official launch of the 2023 Totem Expo in Oshakati.
A totem is simply a physical representation of a family or clan, often acting as a reminder of its ancestry, such as an animal or plant.
Iipumbu explained that culture is the wisdom of the past inherited from our forefathers.
The Oshakati Totem Expo strives to showcase different Namibian cultures, with a particular focus on those predominantly found in the northern part of the country.
“We value culture because that is where clans, which have existed for many years, originated,” he said.
He emphasized that the idea of passing down culture through generations is meant to remind everyone of their roots.
Oshakati Town Mayor, Leonard Hango, said the council, in consultation with stakeholders, developed the Totem Expo concept in 2012 with the aim of preserving and showcasing various cultures in Namibia, as well as strengthening cultural ties.
Therefore, Hango said culture is inevitable in society, especially during this time of different cultural dynamics, and relies on the Oshakati Totem Expo to bridge the gap between cultural values and modern practices within the society.
“The Totem Expo aims to provide a platform for all Namibians to learn and strengthen their cultures through diversity,” he said.
He added that they are highly optimistic that this will be one of the best-hosted Totem Expos.
According to Hango, the entertainment for the event will also include creative performances by various competing Namibian artists and cultural groups.
There will be a street parade featuring many cultural groups representing their clans.
The Oshakati Totem Expo will begin on September 30, 2023, with a fundraising event, and run from December 4, 2023, through December 10, 2023.
Source: Informanté
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