President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia delivered a keynote address at the Omagongo Festival 2024, held at Onambango Palace. The event, hosted by Tatekulu Fillemon Shuumbwa Nangolo, saw a large gathering of Namibians celebrating their rich cultural heritage.
Dr. Mbumba underscored the importance of social connections in forming families, communities, and nations. He described culture as the cumulative knowledge, values, and traditions developed through these interactions. The president highlighted various aspects of Namibian culture, including unity, good neighborliness, self-sufficiency, and sharing, emphasizing their role in fostering peace and harmony.
He praised the Omagongo Festival as a significant event that showcases Namibia’s unique heritage and brings people together to celebrate shared history and traditions. Dr. Mbumba stressed that such celebrations should promote greater understanding and unity among citizens, enabling the nation to withstand challenges together.
The president commended the festival organizers for promoting solidarity, camaraderie, and fraternity among all people, regardless of tribe, race, or religion. He noted that the festival, celebrated on a rotational basis, is a unifying event where traditional food and drinks, especially marula brew, are enjoyed in moderation, fostering peace and communication.
Dr. Mbumba emphasized that cultural festivals help eliminate barriers, conflicts, and stereotypes, promoting an inclusive and open-minded society. He called on Namibians to use culture as a means of building a strong, unified nation, celebrating cultural diversity as a cornerstone of national identity.
He expressed confidence that the Omagongo Festival, along with other cultural celebrations in Namibia, can pave the way to a more harmonious and peaceful society through the sharing of customs, music, dance, and food. Dr. Mbumba also acknowledged the role of traditional leaders as custodians of culture, urging them to continue promoting Namibia’s rich heritage and encouraging values of peace, togetherness, and self-sufficiency.
The president linked the festival to the broader celebration of Africa Day, quoting Pan-Africanist Marcus Garvey to highlight the importance of preserving cultural heritage. He urged Namibians to honor their history and culture, recognizing the sacrifices made during the Liberation Struggle, and to focus on aspects of cultural identity that inspire positive change and unity.
