The continued effects of the 1904 Genocide, which saw the displacement of many OvaHerero people, were highlighted at the Chief Hosea Kutako and Otjiserandu Tjongeama commemorations with descendants from Botswana, Canada, and the US.

Speaking at the commemoration at Okahandja, Professor Mutjindje Katjiua, who leads a faction of the OvaHerero Traditional Authority, stressed the importance of being inclusive of the descendants of those who were exiled.

The government of Botswana sponsored the travel costs of a contingent of OveHerero people who reside in that country.

"The Government of Botswana is very supportive of our people; it has ensured the Hereros in Botswana are here today by assisting to the total of N$99,000 for the transportation of a full bus of over 70 people that have come from Botswana. He could have been here today, but he is celebrating his birthday tomorrow; unfortunately, they are running primaries. We wish him a healthy life and success in his political campaign, and we are hoping he gets re-elected as President of Botswana so that we can continue to collaborate and work together."

Katjiua has also called for the recognition of the OvaHerero, who currently resides in South Africa, saying they are living in the shadows of other South African tribes.

"So I hope the South African government will one day recognise that Hereros are in South Africa and will one day be enumerated as Hereros and will have a traditional head that is recognised by the South African government and can be part of the House of Chiefs."

The annual event also included rituals at the sacred burial site and the paying of homage to fallen heroes and heroines.