Allexer Namundjembo
Two community representatives from South Africa, Jakob Makai of the !Kung people and Lukas Poemuru of the Khwe community, took part in the Indigenous People’s Knowledge Fair hosted by the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust).
Their participation was supported by the organisation Palms For Life.
The fair ran from 5 to 18 September at Nhoma village, Epupa village and Khorixas.
It brought together 12 indigenous communities from different countries for 12 days of cultural exchange, dialogue and learning.
Vice President Lucia Witbooi welcomed the participants at Naankuse on Thursday.
“Indigenous people bring ecological and economic contributions, and your work aligns with ours,” she said.
Poemuru said the fair gave him insight into the struggles faced by other indigenous groups, including limited access to clean water, healthcare, education and recognition of cultural leadership.
“I have learnt that San culture is still alive, with knowledge of traditional medicine, hunting and gathering, even though there are boundaries preventing them from hunting freely,” he said.
“It was a well-organised journey, and I appreciate Palms For Life for making it possible for me to be part of this informative experience.”
Makai described the experience as uplifting and diverse.
“It is something that needs continuity. We should have more events where we share and transfer knowledge. The journey was very spiritual, and every participant had the opportunity to share culture, customs and traditions. We faced challenges, but there were always solutions,” he said.
Both Makai and Poemuru praised the hospitality of the Nhoma, Himba and Khorixas communities, saying the fair deepened their appreciation for cultural resilience and knowledge sharing.
The Indigenous People’s Knowledge Fair provided a platform for indigenous groups to exchange ideas, strengthen solidarity and celebrate cultural heritage.
