Staff Reporter
SENIOR Traditional Councillor Elias Waandja, the Chairperson of the Oukwanyama Traditional Authority (OuTA), said that approximately 20,000 people are expected at the 2025 Omaongo Cultural Festival currently underway at the Omhedi Palace near the town of Helao Nafidi, Ohangwena Region.
The event kicked off late Friday, but the main event takes place Saturday morning. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will be the keynote speaker.
“We are expecting approximately 20,000 people, but a contingency plan is in place should there be more people than expected. All are welcome. We are well prepared—there is enough marula wine and enough meat for all,” he said.
He said that the enjoyment of omaongo (marula) wine and the joyous mood of the Festival naturally go hand in hand with a colourful display of traditional wear and the performance of traditional dances and songs.
Waandja, himself in a festive mood and wearing an osheshele shirt and a matching waistcoat, is encouraging Festival attendees to adorn themselves in their best traditional attire to add flavour to the festivities.
