Justicia Shipena
The new N$1 coin, which has not yet entered public circulation, is already facing criticism over its informal reference as the ‘Outere Dollar.’
The backlash stems from a Facebook post by the Bank of Namibia (BoN), which acknowledged the public’s nickname for the coin and referenced the word “Outere”, a Khoekhoegowab term loosely translated as “give me.” Some argue the word carries derogatory connotations
The central bank on Friday had shared a Facebook post that read, “So they’re calling it the ‘Outere Dollar?’ We see you, Namibia! Yes, that new N$1 coin with the two hands might look like someone’s asking, but here’s the plot twist: the Outere isn’t just about asking, it’s about giving back, making moves, sealing deals… So if you hear ‘Outere Dollar,’ smile and know it’s not begging; it’s business.”
The post triggered criticism, with some stating that the word “Outere” has historically been used as a slur against Khoekhoegowab (Damara/Nama) community nd is inappropriate in relation to national currency.
BoN issued a statement on Sunday, saying it does not officially endorse the term.
It said the coin’s design was meant to honour the country’s retail sector and represent economic exchange.
The N$1 coin features two hands exchanging coins. BoN said the design is intended to show resilience and inclusion.
“The Bank of Namibia recognises and celebrates cultural and linguistic diversity and would never intentionally promote exclusion or division,” the statement read.
However, Windhoek resident Matthew //Gowaseb criticised the BoN’s handling of the matter, calling it careless.
“The careless deployment of this term, which is laden with historic and tribalist connotations, has not only stirred offence but has also undermined the spirit of our national motto: One Namibia, One Nation,” he wrote.
He said the Bank should promote national unity and inclusivity.
He called on BoN’s governor Johannes !Gawaxabto apologise, delete the post, and implement cultural sensitivity training.
“Namibia’s hard-won peace and unity must not be undermined by symbolic gestures that fracture the national spirit. We must demand better, especially from our institutions,” he said.
“We did not use the word ‘Outere.’ The Bank of Namibia did—publicly, proudly, in their own Facebook post… What’s truly jaw-dropping is this: they’re not even apologising… Withdraw the term. Acknowledge the harm. Anything less is complicity,” //Gowaseb added.
Another citizen, Brigette Luiperth, also criticised the BoN’s actions. She said while the institution plays a role in preserving language and culture, the use of “Outere” is harmful.
“The term ‘Outere’, directly translated as ‘give me,’ is commonly used in public as a derogatory slur… The context in which the word is employed in everyday settings often strips the phrase of any neutral or cultural value, reducing it to a stereotype that mocks and marginalises a community.”
She warned that using the word on national currency could normalise discrimination.
“What particularly alarmed me and indeed compelled me to write this complaint was overhearing a group of boys aged approximately 14 and 16 discussing how inappropriate and offensive the name is. Their insight and disapproval highlight how deep the understanding and rejection of such derogatory undertones run, even among the youth. That such a sentiment is instinctively recognised by young Namibians should signal a cause for reflection and urgent redress by your esteemed institution,” she expressed.
The new N$1 coin, launched two weeks ago along with other updated coins and notes, is expected to enter circulation later this month.
