Deep within the heart of Southwestern Africa lies not just one, but two intriguing clans that merit attention on our evolving list of distinctive African cultures (granted, there isn’t an official list yet, but stay tuned!)….CONTINUE READING
In a world dominated by smartphones, technology, and all things digital, it’s disheartening to acknowledge that, with progress, the essence of hospitality is gradually waning. Fortunately, a certain clan remains unwavering in their commitment to pleasing their guests.
Allow me to introduce you to the Ovahimba and Ovazimba Tribes of Namibia, residing in the Kunene and Omusati districts in Northern Namibia. These tribes have preserved a culture that resists the influence and disruptions of the Western world.
With a population exceeding 50,000, the women engage in daily tasks such as milking cows, caring for their children, and fulfilling various responsibilities. Meanwhile, the men embark on extended hunting trips, and the wealth of these tribes is gauged by the quantity of cattle one possesses.
Polygamy is prevalent, with Himba young girls being given to male partners selected by their fathers once they reach puberty. Their distinctive red skin tone is attributed to the otjize paste—a mixture of butterfat, omuzumba scrub, and ochre—which serves to shield their skin from the sun and insect bites. Additionally, the red hue holds symbolic significance, representing “Earth and blood” in their belief system. Rather than conventional bathing, the women opt for smoke baths and apply fragrant resins on their skin.
The concept of honor takes a unique form in this tribe. When a guest arrives, a man expresses his approval and joy by offering the Okujepisa Omukazendu treatment, meaning his wife is allocated to the guest for the night while he sleeps in a separate room. In cases where an extra room is unavailable, the husband resigns to sleeping outdoors. This longstanding tradition serves the community by mitigating jealousy and nurturing relationships.
However, the woman in this tribe holds no sway in decision-making; her primary duty is to submit to her husband’s requests. Although she has the option to decline sharing a bed with him, she must still share a room with the guest. While she theoretically has the right to offer her friends to her husband when they visit, this occurrence is rare.
