A film that explores the spiritual rupture that occurs when cultural traditions are abandoned in favour of modernity was recently launched by the Namibia Film Commission (NFC) in Opuwo, Kunene region.

The short film is inspired by the ancestral traditions of the OvaHimba and OvaHerero people. 
At the heart of the story is the sacred fire, known as the Okuruwo, described as a living connection between the ancestors and the present generation.

"This is a story about the tension between our cultural traditions and also modernity and basically exploring to see if these two can coexist. All right. This is basically a sacred story that is told from the inside perspective. I got inspired by this story because I think it's very important that we tell these stories in Namibia, especially since our cultures are so diverse, and we need to tell our stories before the urban migration erases them," reiterates producer and writer of the Okuruwo film, Tekla Nakale. 

Funded by NFC and produced and directed by Elizabeth Hamukwaya and Tekla Nakale, the Okuruwo: A Tale of the Holy Fire film sparked meaningful conversations about culture, heritage and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge for future generations.

"It was very important, especially for my team. We had to go to the actual place; this way was shot in Kunene in Omgunda and also in Epupa. It is a very, very interesting story, and I think that it's very important, especially now for the Namibian nation and also outside for everyone to like watch this movie."

During the screening, the film sparked meaningful conversations where the young and old engaged on the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge.