Maria David
IN a powerful demonstration of unity and dedication to Namibia’s cultural heritage, the Annual Cultural Festival Fundraising Gala Dinner successfully raised a staggering N$1.2 million on Saturday.
The Olufuko Festival, which is recognized and celebrated within Namibia, continues to be seen as a vital part of the nation’s cultural heritage, aiming to preserve traditional values and rites of passage for young girls into womanhood.
This year’s festival is dedicated to celebrating the legacy of the late Founding President Sam Nujoma.
Nujoma served as Olufuko’s esteemed patron from its inception in 2012 until his passing.
PICTURED: Scenes from the 11th Edition Olufuko Annual Cultural Festival fundraising Gala Dinner, held at Omusati Regional Council Hall. Photos: MICT Omusati
Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele, said that the participation of young girls reflects the enduring importance of Olufuko and the dedication of those working to safeguard and pass down cultural traditions.
“These efforts reaffirm our commitment to honouring Namibia’s heritage while ensuring that cultural traditions continue to thrive in a modern and evolving society,” she said.
!Nawases-Taeyele also paid tribute to Nujoma for establishing the Olufuko Cultural Festival.
Similarly, Omusati Governor Erginus Endjala indicated that the festival is one of Namibia’s most treasured cultural legacies.
According to Endjala, since its inception, the Olufuko Festival has grown beyond a mere celebration; it has become a movement that proudly preserves and promotes indigenous traditions and cultural identity.
Meanwhile, Mayor of Outapi Selma Asino said they are committed to supporting the festival as a pillar of cultural preservation and community empowerment.
Speaking on behalf of the Sam Nujoma Foundation, Dr. Pendukeni Iivula-Itana, Deputy Chairperson, emphasized the foundation’s longstanding dedication to advancing Namibia’s cultural heritage, commending the continued enthusiasm and increasing participation in Olufuko.
She reiterated that nurturing cultural traditions is vital for sustaining generational knowledge and pride.
Thus far, a total of 112 girls have registered to participate in the festival, with participation numbers continuing to grow.
Participants from the Ombalantu, Ombandja, Ongandjera, Uukwambi, Uukwaludhi, and Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authorities will undergo this significant rite of passage at the Olufuko Centre.
The festival is scheduled to take place from 20 June to 01 July 2025.
