Kwambi Culture

The north central part of Namibia, consisting of the regions Oshana, Omusati, Ohangwena, and Oshikoto, is collectively known as Owamboland or O-Land for obvious reasons. Owamboland has of course been my home over the last 9 months. The people of O-Land are known as the Owambo and they make up over half of the Namibian population. It is the Owambo people who led the fight against South Africa for independence back in the 80’s and early 90’s and are now the dominant group in the Namibian government.

The Owambo are divided into 8 different tribes; the Kwanyama, Ndonga, Ngandjera, Mbalantu, Kwaluudhi, Nkolokadhi, Eunda, and my tribe, the Kwambi. Each of these tribes have their own unique dialect and culture.

My travels around Namibia have led to some amazing places. However, for many, but not all of these places something was missing. After passing through towns that resemble many rundown towns in the U.S., hitching rides with Afrikaners (white Africans of European descent), and wandering the streets of the urban and modern capitol, Windhoek, I realized that “Africa” was missing. When Africa comes to mind we generally think of big, dangerous wild animals, mud and grass huts, extreme poverty, and National Geographic images of people running around with no clothes. Well, Namibia indeed has all of this; it just may not be as widespread or in-your-face as other African nations. Luckily for me, Owamboland is a cultural heartland of the country. However, the Owambo have adopted the use of clothes, unlike our Himba neighbors just to the west.

Last month things were culture packed. There is a government ministry dedicated to the preservation of the many unique Namibian cultures. Each year they hold a large cultural competition with each of the 13 regions represented. The competition begins at the local level which is exactly what happened this last June. Enguwantale has three cultural groups that compete. Two come from the school; a young youth group and an older youth group. Also, there is an adult culture group. The day of the cultural competition brought in groups from several of the smaller villages around Enguwantale. It was an amazing day which allowed me to experience a little known culture, Kwambi culture.

Props for the cultural performances. Items such as millet, sorghum, palm fruit, salt, and beans are displayed in traditional Owambo made baskets.

“Culture” consists of singing, dancing, drumming, and often a skit. Here, the older youth group from the school performs a traditional dance. The dancing is very unique; it is an aggressive display of jumping and stomping of the feet to the rhythm of clapping, drumming, and singing.

Unfortunately these are the only two boys from Enguwantale who are active in the culture group. They are very good dancers and have their own distinct style that is different than the girls.

Here the national champions are preparing to make their way to the “stage” (stage being a sandy patch under the tree). This is the older youth group from Enguwantale school. Last year they progressed all the way to the national championship and took the top spot in their category. Rightfully so. Their performance is amazing.

The adult group from Enguwantle dancing with a common tool seen around here, the millet pounder. The adult group is not quite as energetic as the youth groups, but their years of experience and knowledge of traditions certainly shines through.

If pink is your color then Owamboland might be your place. Seeing the kids dressed up and taking pride in their culture is wonderful to see. I am proud of them and find it a privilege so see them everyday in the classroom (unless of course they are talking when I am trying to teach!)