Oshakati revives Totem expo

Following a three-year hiatus due to Covid-19 pandemic, the Oshakati Totem Expo has been revived by the Oshakati Town Council, who promise an event that is elevated to greater heights.

The expo will be held from 4 to 10 December at the Oshakati Independence Stadium, and aims to bridge the gap between cultural values and the modern practices in society.

Oshakati mayor Leonard Hango, speaking during the launch of the expo, said the council is optimistic that this year’s expo will be one of their best.

“Culture is inevitable in our society, especially during this time of different cultural dynamics. Considering that the expo aims to provide a platform for all Namibians to learn and strengthen their cultures in diversity, it also provides a good platform for all enterprises, institutions and indeed the business sector to sell and showcase their products and services,” he said.

Developed in 2012, the expo’s earliest iterations were held in an open area behind the Yetu Shopping Centre, he said.

“The expo was not largely attended at the time, but over the years, it has evolved into a practical, educational and enjoyable event, where we now have exhibitors from across the nation and abroad, without deviating from its original concept which entails preserving and showcasing various cultures in Namibia and strengthening ties through culture.

“As our theme states and as it is commonly said, a nation without culture is comparable to a tree without the roots,” said Hango.

He urged the business sector to register as exhibitors early, as space may be limited.

Uukwambi Traditional Authority chief and chairperson of the eight northern traditional authorities Ndilimani Iipumbu encouraged the nation to respect their cultural values and norms, saying that a nation without culture is one without a sense of belonging.

He further praised the Oshakati Town Council for initiating the Totem expo, as the artistic performances from various Namibian artists and other cultural activities will serve as a learning opportunity for the youth.