Erongo governor calls for preservation of culture for future generations

Erongo governor Neville Andre has stressed the need to preserve cultural heritage for future generations.

He was speaking at the launch of Heritage Week at Swakopmund on Monday.

Heritage Week is being held under the theme: ‘Culture is Community, Community is Culture’.

“We must protect our culture from the challenges of globalisation, urbanisation and modernisation. Culture is not just an abstract concept but a living reality that affects us all,” he said.

According to Andre, the youth are increasingly disconnecting from their cultural roots.

“We must teach the youth about our traditions so that they are not lost. It is their responsibility to carry this heritage forward with pride and respect.

“Museums are critical to preserving and educa­ting current and future generations about our culture. They ensure our history remains accessible and alive,” he said.

Andre highlighted that culture binds people together as a community.

“It reflects who we are, not just as individuals but as a nation. This week, we reflect on the past, not only to remember our heritage, but also to celebrate its evolution and its role in shaping Namibia’s unique identity.”

Andre noted that culture is not a relic of the past, but a living part of current society.

“Erongo is home to many ethnic groups, who are living components of today’s social fabric,” he said.

Swakopmund deputy mayor Dawid Am-!Gabeb said the town is rich in cultural diversity.

“Heritage Week reminds us of who we are,” said Am-!Gabeb.

“When we secure our traditions, we build the identity of our community. Swakopmund has a unique blend of cultures, from African to European influences and this diversity must be embraced and respected,” he added.

Nadine Phiri of the Swakopmund Scientific Association and Swakopmund Museum warned that the future is uncertain without a clear understanding of the past.

“We don’t know where we are going if we don’t know where we come from,” she said.

Lynette van Niekerk of the Swakopmund Arts Association highlighted the beauty of Namibia’s rich diversity.

“Our different languages, traditional attire and rituals are not just part of our local identity, but they resonate internationally. It’s important for cultures to be in the community, and for community to be in a culture,” she said.

Face of Namibia’s Jonathan Harris, an international model and a youth and mental health advocate, said Heritage Week provides a chance to celebrate the unity of Namibia’s cultural landscape.