The Ovambanderu community and other members of the public converged on Okahandja last weekend to mark the 130th anniversary of the execution of erstwhile Ovambanderu leader Kahimemua Nguvauva.

Nguvauva was executed by firing squad on June 12, 1896, in Okahandja.

A sea of green, white and black – the traditional colours of the Ovambanderu people – filled the garden town. 

The day started with a procession to Kahimemua's grave and that of many other prominent Ovambanderu leaders buried at Okahandja.

As usual, various traditional calvary and infantry troops displayed their drilling skills, whilst battle cries and other traditional rites complemented the activities on the day.

Also, a tombstone unveiling ceremony for late Ovambanderu caretaker chief Gerson Katjirua was conducted on Sunday.

This included the laying of wreaths on his grave, led by President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Ovambanderu chief Eben Tjozohongo ll Nguvauva.

Katjirua, highly revered for his leadership acumen and humble nature, took an interim role over the Ovambanderu throne as acting chief in-between the swearing-in of a substantive chief, following the death of prolific Ovambanderu leader Munjuku ll Nguvauva.

Kahimemua led an armed resistance against colonial occupation in eastern Namibia, following a series of disputes over land, cattle, and sovereignty.

He was captured, subjected to a court-martial by the German colonial authorities, and executed by firing squad on June 12, 1896, in Okahandja.
The event is commemorated each year.