Hamutumwa calls for intangible cultural heritage preservation
Namibian officials are calling for urgent efforts to preserve the country's intangible cultural heritage as older generations pass away. The initiative encourages youth to learn traditional craftsmanship to maintain national identity and foster local entrepreneurship.
Why it matters
Preserving cultural heritage is vital for maintaining national identity and can provide economic opportunities through sustainable local industries.
ONAMBUTU – Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa has warned that Namibia’s valuable traditions, knowledge, and practices risk disappearing forever as their ageing custodians pass away.
Speaking recently at the inaugural celebration of the International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage at Onambutu Combined School, Hamutumwa called for urgent, concerted national efforts to preserve the country’s living history.
In a speech read on her behalf, she urged younger generations to actively learn from their elders, emphasising that safeguarding traditional craftsmanship not only protects Namibian identity but also opens doors for sustainable livelihoods and local entrepreneurship.
Organised by the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, the first-ever celebration was held under the theme: “Celebrating Namibia’s Craftsmanship: Safeguarding Our Heritage, Identity and Traditional Knowledge.”
The celebration drew a diverse group of participants from six regions: Kunene, Kavango West, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto and Ohangwena.
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