The Olufuko Annual Cultural Festival, underway at the Olufuko Centre in Outapi in the Omusati Region, drew a large number of girls this year compared to the past years.

A total of 134 girls are taking part in the traditional initiation ceremony, an increase from 81 participants in 2023. This marks the highest number of initiates since the festival's inception in 2012, when it began with just 17 girls.

The initiates, who come from various traditional authorities in Omusati and other regions, are taught essential household chores and cultural practices as part of their transition into adulthood.

The Olufuko Festival is not only a cultural celebration but also a revival of traditional rites of passage. 

It has grown significantly over the years, becoming a cornerstone of cultural identity and heritage in northern Namibia.

The festival began on June 20 and will run until July 1.

This year’s official opening ceremony will be presided over by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare on June 27