The Namibia Heritage Week officially kicked off in Windhoek on Monday.
Established in 2012, the event aims to celebrate and preserve the country's rich cultural diversity and heritage.
Namibia's Heritage Week for this year will be celebrated from 16-22 September, under the theme "Culture is Community, Community is Culture," emphasising the link between culture and society.
Among its objectives is to celebrate, promote, safeguard, and protect all forms of cultural heritage in Namibia, regardless of religious or ethnic identity.
It also aims to promote understanding across diverse communities of the communal value of heritage and preserve the knowledge and traditions of Namibia's Indigenous communities.
"This week allows us to reflect on where we come from, take pride in our roots, and ensure that our children and grandchildren inherit a legacy of cultural richness and diversity. The significance of this week is seen in how it encourages all Namibians to keep our heritage alive. It motivates us to visit our museums, heritage sites, and cultural institutions, or to experience the beauty of our diverse cultural practices or natural wonders," said Joram Shifa, Chairperson of the Namibia Heritage Week 2024.
The Minister of Education, Arts, and Culture, Ester Nghipondoka, said as part of heritage, arts, and culture the ministry will remain committed to ensuring that Namibian learners are exposed to the wealth of knowledge rooted in their cultural practices, oral histories, artistic expressions, and indigenous knowledge systems.
"Arts and culture cultivate critical thinking, empathy, and creativity, while our heritage instils in young Namibians a sense of identity and continuity. By integrating heritage into our education system, we ensure that learning is holistic, providing not only academic knowledge but also life skills rooted in our shared history and values."
Windhoek Mayor Queen Kamati described Windhoek as a heritage resource worth preserving, including historical homes in Katutura and Khomasdal.
"This voluntary exchange programme targets historically significant properties built between 1959 and 1960. This project seeks to address historic inequities, the skewed imbalance in our cultural heritage, and redefine it by telling our stories through these homes."
The week will be celebrated across the country and will involve activities such as cultural exhibitions, traditional food displays, games, and training sessions for young people to engage with their cultural roots.