The Vaalgras Traditional Authority held its first cultural festival after nearly three years following the outbreak of COVID-19.

The cultural festival is celebrated under the theme "In the Spirit of Recovery and Revival."

The Acting Chief of the Vaalgras Traditional Authority, Martin Biwa, called for unity among communities, which he believes will bring about prosperity and economic recovery for the community.

"Namibia is a free country; we all know that, but we are still struggling economically. That is why it is of utmost importance that our people stand together as one. We should study hard and take part in the activities of the community by contributing our skills and talents and serving our people because people without knowledge will not prosper.

Biwa says the festival is equally dedicated to the late chief, Joel Stefanus, who died after contracting COVID-19 in July 2021.

The acting chief also paid tribute to all the fallen heroes of the Vaalgras Traditional Authority at the gravesites of senior councillors and former chiefs.

"We have been coming to this sacred grave site for many years to pay tribute to our former leaders and to ask for protection and mercy for the coming year. This is our culture, and we continue to observe it and share it with the youth so that one day they too can continue with our cultural practises."

Erick Binga is a senior councillor in the Vaalgras Tradition Authority. He explains how the descendants of the OvaHerero ended up at Vaalgras.

"We are originally Herero people, but because of the war, we were cut off from our people in the north and eastern parts of the country. We subsequently became known as Oorlam and decided to stay in this area. What is now important for the rest of us is learning the traditional customs of our forefathers so that we can share them with our children."

The festival lived up to its expectations, as attendees were entertained with cultural music, food, dance, and the opportunity to network with fellow tribesmen.