Allexer Namundjebo
The Sam Nujoma Foundation has confirmed its support for the annual Olufuko Cultural Festival, pledging to continue the legacy of its late patron, founding president Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma.
At a fundraising gala dinner for the festival’s 11th edition on Saturday, the Foundation’s deputy chairperson, Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana, said the Foundation will keep backing the cultural heritage and values promoted by the late president.
“This year’s edition marks the first Olufuko Festival held without its most ardent patron, but the Foundation will steadfastly support the cultural objectives he tirelessly advocated,” Iivula-Ithana said.
She highlighted Dr Nujoma’s belief that cultural identity forms the roots of national development and unity.
“He often said a nation without culture is like a tree without roots.”
She also acknowledged his long-term support for traditional leaders and cultural institutions.
The Foundation contributed N$2,000 toward this year’s event, which is held annually in Outapi, Omusati Region.
Though a non-profit, the Foundation will keep mobilising resources and public support for initiatives that preserve Namibia’s cultural heritage.
Iivula-Ithana addressed the role of culture in tackling social issues like gender-based violence, urging communities to teach traditional values to the youth.
She stressed the importance of education, especially for young girls who take part in the Olufuko initiation process.
Olufuko is a traditional Aawambo female initiation ceremony and cultural festival held yearly in Outapi.
The word “Olufuko” means “wedding” in Oshiwambo and represents a rite of passage for girls, usually aged between 12 and 20, into womanhood.
During the festival, participants called efundula girls learn about traditional responsibilities, womanhood, and domestic duties, along with modern topics such as reproductive health and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Although it is rooted in precolonial customs, the festival today celebrates cultural identity and education, allowing girls to return to school after their initiation.
The festival was revived and officially launched as a public event in August 2012, with its first ceremony held on August 23, 2012.
The late Nujoma played a key role in the revival and remained a strong patron of the festival as an important part of Namibia’s heritage.
Since the launch, Olufuko has initiated an estimated 800 to 900 girls.
Participation has grown from 17 girls in the first year to 78 in 2017, 69 in 2019, and 85 in 2024.
Although “Olufuko” means “wedding”, the festival is strictly a cultural rite of passage, not a marriage ceremony.
