gateway to northern namibia - the official guide

. . . . . . . . . . . . The Gateway to. . . . . . . . . . . .

1The Gateway to Northern Namibia

Welcome toThe further north one travels through Namibia, the greener the countryside. Life on the vast plains of these essentially agricul-tural regions depends on the seasonal efundja, the floods that feed the rivers, and the flat, shallow depressions called osha-nas. The most spectacular sunsets and palm lined horizons can be found in this region.

The expansive flat plains of northern Namibia are character-ised by intermittent stands of tall, graceful Makalani palms, and large deciduous Marula trees with dense, spreading crowns. Both these trees fulfil a pivotal role in the subsistence, lifestyles and culture of the local communities. The majority of the inhabitants of the northern regions makes a living from subsistence farming. They are born traders who offer their goods in cuca shops and stalls along the side of the road, or in open markets.

Over the past few years, however, the northern towns have undergone immense growth in various sectors of the eco-nomy. You will find first-world shopping centres, sporting the trendiest international anchor tenants. Modern infrastructure and world-class amenities and services have found their way to the north and considering the fact that 80% of Namibias population live in the north of the country, it stands to reason that business investment and development will follow suit.

We hope this book inspires you to experience the cultures, traditions and people of the north. Furthermore, we aim to highlight investment potential of each area and to showcase existing businesses that are already involved in advancing this region to improved sustainability.

We hope to see you here soon!

A shared journey lights the way

Northern Namibia

DISCLAIMER: Extreme care has gone into supplying correct and accurate information for the publica-tion. However, no liability can be accepted by the publisher for any errors or omissions (E. & O.E) that may have occured. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means without the express written permission of the publisher. Legends of Africa

2 The Gateway to Northern Namibia


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ContentsCContentsMagnet Bureau de Change Inside Front Cover

Namibia Airports Company Pg 2-3

The Four Owambo Regions Pg 6 - 14

Oshana Region Pg 16 - 20

Mayors Foreword Pg 21

Ongwediva Town Council Pg 22 - 27

Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair Pg 28 - 29

Ongwediva Accommodation Section: Pg 30 - 33

Ongwediva Commercial & Industrial Section: Pg 34 - 54

Oshakati Town Council Pg 56 - 57

Oshakati Accommodation Section: Pg 58

Oshakati Amenities & Services Section: Pg 59 - 61

Oshakati Commercial & Industrial Section: Pg 62 - 65

Ondangwa Town Council Pg 66 - 68

Ondangwa Accommodation Section: Pg 69 - 70

Ondangwa Amenities & Services Section: Pg 71 - 73

Ondangwa Commercial & Industrial Section: Pg 74 - 77


Contents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ...............

ContentsCContentsKunene Region Pg 78 - 83Scents of Namibia Pg 84 - 85Opuwo Town Council Pg 86 - 87Opuwo Accommodation Section: Pg 88Opuwo Amenities & Services Section: Pg 90 - 91

Omusati Region Pg 92 - 96Okahao Town Council Pg 98 - 99Omusati Accommodation Section: Pg 100-101

Ohangwena Region Pg 102-106Ohangwena Accommodation Section: Pg 108-110

Oshikoto Region Pg 112-116

Otjizondjupa Region: Accommodation Pg 117

Desert Air Pg 118-122

Categorical Listing....................................................................Pg 123Alphabetical Listing..................................................................Pg 124

Northern Map Fold out back flap

Back Flap - Peralin PaintsBack Cover - Pennypinchers TimbercityBookmark - Magnet Bureau de Change


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gwena, Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto regions. The

largest of these, Oshikoto, contains what is arguably

Namibias top tourist destination, the internationally

famous Etosha National Park, and the two intriguing

bottomless lakes, Otjikoto and Guinas.

These regions are bordered in the north by the

Kunene River, with Angola on the other side; in the

west by the Hartmann and Baynes mountains and

the Skeleton Coast Park; in the south by the Kunene

Region, traditionally referred to as Kaokoland

and Damaraland; and in the east by the Kavango,

Caprivi and Otjizondjupa regions. After the capital

Windhoek, this region has the largest urban con-

centration of people in the country.

With a total surface area of just over 56 100 km2,

the major portion of these so-called Four O Regions

consists of communal farming land, that is land where

there is no individual ownership or boundary fences,

and where the majority of the inhabitants makes a liv-

ing from subsistence farming.

The best time of the year to visit the Owambo re-

gions is April and May, after the rains. By this time

the roads are suitable for driving on, the heat of

the summer has abated, and the wetlands still host

many water birds, such as cranes, storks, ducks, her-

ons and small waders.

INTRODUCTION

Lake Otjikoto


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Prior to independence in 1990, this part of the country

was called Ovamboland. Today it is loosely referred to

as Owambo. According to the 2011 population census,

the Omusati Region with 243,166 people had the larg-

est population; the Ohangwena Region with 228,384

the second largest; the Oshikoto Region with 181,973

the third largest; and Oshana with 176,674 the smallest.

While the majority of Namibias Owambo live in these

four so-called O regions, many have migrated south-

wards to other parts of the country.

Since 1870, following the advent of the Finnish Mission

in Owambo, and subsequently the Roman Catholic and

Anglican churches, Christianity has played a major role

in the lives of the Owambo people. Today more than

half of the population has some link with these denomi-

nations. The Finnish Mission Church developed into an

independent Owambo/Kavango Church, which also has

adherents among the Kavango people of the north-east.

In the pre-colonial structure of Owambo society there

was a king and headmen in each of the eight Owambo

groups. Judicial powers were vested in village and re-

gional courts, with the highest court being the Supreme

Court of the King, where the King is assisted by his

headmen. This system reflects influences from the great

mediaeval states of central Africa characterised by the

sacred king having almost unlimited power.

These days only three of the Owambo clans the

Ndonga, Ngandjera and Kwaluudhi still recognise

their kings and are ruled by chiefs-in-council. The others

have a system of senior headmen forming a council and

administering their tribes by joint action. An important

function of these officials is the regulation of the system

of land ownership. About a quarter of the Owambo re-

gions has been claimed by individual landowners, each

occupying farms of several thousand hectares.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND


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rised by intermittent stands of tall, graceful makalani

palms, and large deciduous marula trees with dense,

spreading crowns. Both these trees fulfil a pivotal

role in the subsistence, lifestyles and culture of the

local communities.

The makalani palm (Hyphaene petersiana) has large

fan-like leaves and fruits resembling spherical brown

nuts. Sap is tapped from the growing tip of the stems

of these palms and left to ferment into a potent drink

called palm wine. The fruit of the makalani palm

takes two years to mature, and has a white, bony

kernel. Referred to as vegetable ivory, its hard ker-

nel is suitable for carving small ornaments, such as

distinctive and decorative buttons. These are sold to

tourists as souvenirs by roadside vendors; to traders

to be featured in formal and informal jewellery; and

in functional items like key rings and bottle openers.

The carved nuts usually depict animals elephant,

rhino, giraffe, gemsbok and springbok or topical

themes such as the Namibian flag and domestic

scenes. They are also sold at craft markets such as

the Namibia Craft Centre in Tal Street in Windhoek,

and make attractive gifts for tourists to take home as

souvenirs.

TWO VALUABLE TREES

Makalani Palms


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The huge spreading marula, Sclerocarya birrea, is an

important fruit and shade tree for human and animals

alike. The fruit is nutritious and high in vitamin C. It is

eaten fresh, while the juice is drunk unfermented as a

beverage, or fermented to make wine, which may be

further distilled to make brandy. Oil expressed from

the kernel, which is edible, is protein-rich and eaten

with porridge, and also used for cooking, dressing

leather, in cosmetics and as an insecticide. The wood

is used for carvings, the branches for fire-sticks, and

the leaves and bark medicinally. Elephants are par-

ticularly partial to the bark and fruit of these trees.

THE LIFE-GIVING CUVELAI SYSTEMLife on the vast plains of these essentially agricultural

regions depends on the seasonal efundja, the floods

that feed the rivers, and the flat, shallow depressions

called oshanas. A memorable sight is when they light

up with copious growths of white lilies soon after the

rainy season has commenced. The origin of these wa-

ters is the highlands of Angola. After a long journey

southwards, the Cuvelai River disperses its contents

into many channels, covering the sandy flats of south-

ern Angola and spreading into northern Namibia to

form a large expansive delta of rivulets and oshanas.

These provide drinking water to humans and animals,

protein in the form of fish and a habitat that supports

large numbers of aquatic birds.

Marula Tree


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Having a common origin and culture, the people living

in central northern Namibia and southern Angola

migrated southwards from the Great Lakes in East Africa

to settle between the Kunene and Okavango rivers in

about 1550. Today four of these groups live in southern

Angola in the Cunene Province, and eight are spread

across northern Namibia.

Of the eight Owambo tribes, the Kwanyama is the lar-

gest. The others are the Ndonga, Kwambi, Ngandyela,

Kwaluudhi and Mbalanhu, and the two smaller ones,

the Nkolonkadhi and Unda. The Owambo languages,

which are closely related to one another and are Bantu

in origin, are commonly understood by Oshiwambo

speakers, with Kwanyama and Ndonga having been

developed into written languages.

The most striking feature of the traditional Owambo so-

cial system is the predominance of matrilineal descent,

which determines the laws of inheritance and succes-

sion, as well as post-marital residency. In recent years,

as a result of external factors such as the Christian doc-

trine, migrant labour and economic independence,

there has been a distinct shift towards a patrilineally

organised society.

OWAMBO TRIBAL AND SOCIAL STRUCTURE


OWAMBO TRIBAL AND SOCIAL STRUCTURE

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Traditionally Owambo houses are shaped like ronda-

vels, usually encircled by palisades, and often con-nected by passages. The complex usually contains cattle kraals, and is surrounded by cultivated lands.

The Owambo practise a mixed economy of agriculture,

cultivating mainly mahangu (a kind of pearl millet), sor-ghum and beans, and farming with livestock, mainly

cattle, supplemented by fishing in the oshanas. They

utilise traditional land according to the traditional right of occupation usually acquired by paying the owner

of the ward with cattle. Although subject to the laws of

the people, grazing and utilisation of veld and bush pro-ducts are communal. As is borne out by the more than 10 000 stalls, cuca shops and locally-owned shopping

complexes in the northern regions, the Owambos are

born traders.

Many Owambo people work in other parts of the coun-try. For example, the workforces in todays mining and

fishing industries consist primarily of Owambo people.

They are also well represented in the civil service and

have always played an active role in politics. SWAPO

(South West Africa Peoples Organisation), started as a

non-violent pressure group referred to as the Owambo

Peoples Organisation, and has been Namibias ruling

party since independence in 1990.

Nowadays Owambo women, who traditionally culti-vated the land and raised the children, are earning an income through home industries such as pottery, basketry, dressmaking and woodcarving, and are in-creasingly entering the labour market as nurses, clerks, shop assistants and teachers.

For many years they harvested the fruit of the marula tree, extracting the oil and using it as a taste enhancer in traditional chicken and mahangu dishes, and cosmeti-cally as a moisturiser for their skins. Today the oil of this traditional African food source is being processed and exported as a high-value ingredient for overseas cos-metic products. Namibia is the first Southern African

country to export marula oil to Europe.

Community-based tourism in the four north-central

regions provides an opportunity to meet these friendly and courteous people. Here visitors can experience

the local culture, taste the food and visit the traditional homesteads. Travelling through the area can be done with ease, as there is a comprehensive network of well-

maintained tarred roads and accommodation facilities to suit all preferences and pockets.

ECONOMY AND LIFESTYLES


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The Himba, Tjimba and other Herero people who

inhabit Namibias remote north-western Kunene Re-

gion are also found living in scattered settlements in

the Four O Regions, especially Omusati, Oshana and

Ohangwena.

By tradition Himba are semi-nomadic pastoralists who

tend to trek from one watering place to another. They

seldom leave their home areas and maintain, even in

their dress, a tradition of their own, on which other

cultures have made little impression. They have lived

a relatively isolated existence for many centuries. Due

to their tall, slender and statuesque appearance, the

Himba have been much publicised in books and ma-

gazines, and are renowned for their proud yet friendly

bearing.

They live in simple, cone-shaped structures of sap-

lings, bound together with palm leaves, and plastered

with mud and dung. The men build the structures,

while the women mix the clay and do the plastering.

A fire burns in the headmans hut day and night, to

keep away insects and provide light and heat. A family

may move from one home to another several times a

year to seek grazing for their goats and cattle.

The Himba IN OWAMBO


The Himba IN OWAMBO

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Himba men, women and children wear body adorn-

ments made from iron and shell beads. The women

especially are noted for their sculptural beauty, en-

hanced by intricate hairstyles and traditional adorn-

ments. A traditional Himba woman spends as much as

three hours a day on her toilette. After she has bathed,

she anoints herself with her own individually prepared

mixture of butterfat, herbs and ochre. This mixture not

only protects her skin from the harsh desert sun, but

also keeps insects away and prevents her body hair

from falling out. She uses another mixture of butterfat,

fresh herbs and black coals to rub on her hair, and

steams her clothes regularly over the permanent fire.

Himba women produce finely woven baskets with

beautiful sculptural shapes that were traditionally

used to store milk or fat. In many areas they are still

used for this purpose. Shapes vary from a bottle with

a neck and narrow mouth to a deep pail. Most have

a leather handle with iron-beaded decoration, which

are used to hang the baskets in their dwellings. Bowl-

shaped baskets are made and used for winnowing the

grass seeds collected from ants nests.

MAHANGU FESTIVAL ANDCHAMPIONSHIPThis annual festival, locally referred to as Oshipe, and

held after the harvest in August/September, is hosted in

the region of the Overall National Crown Champion,

which includes all the northern and north-eastern re-

gions, where mahangu (pearl millet) is the staple food

for many. The festival creates a platform for mahangu

farmers to share ideas, motivate each other, and en-

gage in healthy competition while showcasing their

products. Important topics of discussion include the

improvement and modernisation of mahangu produc-

tion by introducing new technologies and cultivation

methods, and by improving soil fertility. The festival is

organised by the Namibian Agronomic Board.

Typical Ovambo Rondavels


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As they have done for thousands of years, Himba men

and women wear large numbers of necklaces and arm

and leg bracelets made from ostrich eggshell beads, grass, cloth and copper. Iron-oxide powder with its

shiny effect is worn like western glitter, while ochre

mixed with fat is rubbed into the skin to give it a

warm terracotta glow. The large white shell worn on

the breast by Himba, Owambo and Herero women is

called the ohumba.

The item that has become especially valued by collec-tors, crafters and jewellery manufacturers is the ekipa,

an ornamental button made from ivory or bone. These interesting artefacts were worn by Owambo women

in earlier times, displayed down their backs on two

leather straps hanging from the waist. The number of

ekipas worn gave an indication of the womans status

and the wealth of her husband.

Ekipas were traditionally carved into oval, round,

square, multi-cornered or oblong forms with a raised

centre, resembling a tiny beehive or rounded pyramid. They were usually engraved with a border in different

geometric patterns around the outer edge. Some were

crafted from hippopotamus tooth or bone, and less frequently from vegetable ivory.

Today ekipas are sought-after items that have become intrinsically and unmistakably Namibian.

THE ORNAMENTAL EKIPA

Himba woman wearing an Ekipa


THE ORNAMENTAL EKIPA


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OOSHANA REGIONThe name of this region derives from its most promi-nent landscape feature, the shallow, seasonally inun-

dated depressions referred to as oshanas, and which

underpin the local agro-ecological system. Although

communications are hindered during the rainy season,

the fish that breed in the oshanas provide an important

source of dietary protein.

The regional borders of Oshana are Ohangwena in the

north, Oshikoto in the east, Kunene in the south and

Omusati in the west. It is one of only three regions in

Namibia that have neither a coastline nor a foreign bor-

der. In 2011 the population in the Oshana Region was

counted as 176,674.

The two main centres of the Owambo regions, Oshakati

and Ondangwa, are in the Oshana Region, with

Oshakati regarded as the capital. The smaller town

of Ongwediva lies in between. Air Namibia conducts

flights to and from Ondangwa, twice daily, seven days

a week. The area is far more densely populated in the

north, which is linked to Tsumeb and other regions by

a high-quality trunk road. This also facilitates the trans-

portation of freight.

Mahangu is the principle staple crop grown in Oshana.

However, the soil is exhausted over much of the central

area and requires substantial fertilisation to maintain

reasonable productivity. Cattle do well here and herds

are extensive. The southern portion of Oshana is an ex-

tensive savannah plain stretching as far as the Etosha

Pan, but the generally high salinity of the soil and water

render it unsuitable for grazing or cultivation.

Maroela Mall


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The Oshakati-Ongwediva-Ondangwa complex has ex-

perienced dramatic urban growth in recent years and

forms an important commercial and potential industrial

focus. As a whole, it is home to the second-largest popu-

lation concentration in Namibia after Windhoek, but it

lacks basic infrastructure and most of the services and

facilities normally found in urban areas of this size. The

majority of businesses in northern Namibia are located

here, providing a significant amount of employment. The

complex plays an increasingly important commercial role

in the north and has considerable industrial potential.

Owambos two main centres, Oshakati and Ondan-

gwa, are bustling towns with the same informality and

happy-go-lucky character as urban centres throughout

much of Africa. Their main streets are lined with a hap-

hazard arrangement of residential houses and shops,

and the traffic varies from donkey carts to the latest in

luxury four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Both towns have airstrips that handle medium-sized

airplanes in daylight only and carry passengers as well

as air cargo. The establishment of a control tower may

contribute to the improvement of all-weather air and

transport. Reasonably good hospitals are situated at

Oshakati and Onjiipa, the latter supporting a num-

ber of clinics. Although both primary and secondary

schools are spread across the region, they are not suf-

ficient to service the population.

The Oshakati Omatala open market is the largest in

Namibia and a big tourist attraction in the north. The

Tulipamwe Sewing Project in the main street of

Oshakati conspicuous due to the vibrant pink fabrics

on display is an ideal place to learn about traditional

Oshiwambo attire and buy unique clothing.

The Ongwediva Trade Fair has been held annually

since 1995. In addition to an array of local stands, it

also hosts exhibitors from Botswana, South Africa,

Ghana, Kenya and Zimbabwe. Situated across the road

from Ongwediva Medi Park is Bennies Entertainment

Park and Lodge, a popular meeting place that provides

leisure activities in many forms. Ongwediva hosts two

modern shopping malls that feature an assortment of

retail outlets and fast-food restaurants.

OSHAKATI, ONDANGWA AND ONGWEDIVA


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

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Onyoka are traditional necklaces made from mussel-

shell beads. These artefacts play a prominent role

in the handcrafted ornamentation that Oshiwambo

women wear, especially on festive occasions. For ex-

ample, newborn babies are welcomed into the world

with a string of onyoka, and throughout their lives,

Oshiwambo women wear the necklaces when at-

tending occasions such as weddings, christenings and

funerals.

An innovative craft-making development established

relatively recently in the Oshana Region is the Ndili-

mani Pottery Group, managed by women who use

clay collected from the oshanas in the flood plains

close to this ingenious underground pottery studio.

The pots can be bought at the Tulongeni Craft Market

on the northern side of the Omuthiya village, 90 km

south of Ondangwa.

The Onankali-Omahangu Paper Project is located

some 55 km south-east of Ondangwa. Here well-craft-

ed and creatively decorated paper is hand-made by a

twelve-member co-operative, using stalks and leaves

of mahangu (pearl millet), a staple in north-central

Namibia. Recycled paper is added to give the paper

a lighter colour. Once the paper is made, it is silk-

screened with African designs by the San Ekoka artist

group. This exceptional product range includes book-

marks, cards, notebooks, conference folders, loose

sheets of paper and magnetised fridge notepads.

In Oniipa (just outside Ondangwa), craftspeople at

the Dorkambo Teppiche Co-operative produce hand-

woven carpets from 100% pure karakul sheep wool.

The town also hosts the historical Onandjokwe Lu-

theran Hospital, named after its first female nurse, and

built in 1911 by the Finnish Missionary Society. It is

still in use today, serving as the primary health-care

facility for the Onandjokwe District.

CRAFT-MAKING IN OSHANA


CRAFT-MAKING IN OSHANA


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

. . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .In close proximity to Ondangwa, at Olukonda, is the

oldest building in northern Namibia, the Nakambale

Mission House. Built in the early 1870s by Finn-

ish missionary Martti Rautanen, the property also

houses the oldest church in the north, the Nakam-

bale Church, built in 1889, flanked by the Nakam-

bale Cemetery, where Rautanen, some of his family

members, and a number of traditional leaders were

laid to rest.

From Olukonda, excursions can be undertaken to

sites of interest such as Oponono Lake, Omandongo

Mission Station, Onoolongo Cattle Post and Ombagu

Grass Plains. Visitors are treated to traditional Owam-

bo food, music and dancing.

TUITION IN ENGLISH,MATHEMATICS AND BRAILLEThe Nghuoyepongo literacy programme, providing tu-

ition in English, mathematics and Braille, is presented

from a location just north of Ondangwa. Most mem-

bers who are part of the Nghuoyepongo programme

suffer from a disability. After classes, members of the

group weave baskets, which are sold at the annual

Ongwediva Trade Fair that takes place in August.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN OSHANA


TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN OSHANA

On behalf of all inhabitants of Ongwediva, it is indeed an honor and privilege to wel-

come all our visitors and potential investors

to the investment destination, our beautiful

locale.

Those visiting Ongwediva for the first time, I

trust that you will greatly enjoy the hospitality

of the town and you will be presented with

many business opportunities. Ongwediva is

situated in the northern part of Namibia where

a large part of the population is concentrat-

ed, therefore giving access to a large market

size and purchasing power. Ongwediva is also

in close proximity to Southern Angola which

offers an attractive market for various goods

and services.

Ongwediva Town Council has an important

role to play in attracting and promoting busi-

ness development and Council has done so

by providing an enabling environment for

economic development, in which businesses

can thrive and visitors presented with the

sense of belonging.

With Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair taking place annually, during August, I am happy to invite you to

come and experience this great exhibition which provides both visitors and exhibitors with a platform

to network and produce lasting valuable relations being business or pleasure. Ongwediva Town will

always have something for everyone.

Once again, I welcome you to Ongwediva and enjoy the hospitality of our people, being it for a day

or for many years to come.

Jason AsinoMAYOR OF ONGWEDIVA


The town of Ongwediva is con-sidered the service hub of the Northern regions of Namibia. The town is situated in Oshana Region, 90 km south of Angola and 30 km from Ondangwa Airport. When you are travel-ling from Etosha it is a distance of 140km and a further 180 km to Ruacana Falls.

Ongwedivas greenery reflects the warm and welcoming atti-tude of its people and it incor-porates an exclusive blend of urban- rural serenity and vibrant

town life. The different cultures are part of the rich diversity on offer within and around the surrounding boundaries of the town of Ongwediva.

Ongwediva was established in year 1992, by then most of the industrial and commercial op-portunities were already taken by neighboring towns. On-gwediva then settled to attract professional service providers to steer the town into becoming the service hub of the northern region for which the town has

come to be known. The town is home to a diversity of cultures with a vibrant life style as the town attracts young to middle age personalities through its different educational centers.

As a Local Authority, Ongwe-diva is mandated by the Local Authorities Act, Act No. 23 of 1992 (as amended) with the provision and maintenance of municipal services and the facilitation of economic de-velopment.


Our Vision: Ongwediva, the Attractive, Quality Town of Choice in Northern Namibia.

Our Mission: Ongwediva Town Council commits itself to:Promote the social & economic development of Ongwediva; creating a conducive environment for trade and investment; offering avenues of stra-tegic networking and efficient service delivery.

The town of Ongwediva has come to be known for the following Strengths;Good infrastructure, financially accountable, Teamwork, Well established Local Economic De-velopment Policies, Good relations with stakehol-ders; Stable political climate, Cultural diversity.

In our Strategic Plan the following Strategic Themes stand out; Build Ongwediva Town Council Capacity Build Relations Develop the Community Develop the Local Economy Develop Physical Infrastructure Create Sustainable Success & Impact

The Ongwediva Open Market:

Established in year 2000, the Ongwedi-

va Open Market provides a conducive

environment to traders with the fol-

lowing facilities; Lockable kiosks, braai

area, sitting facilities, display area,

paved floors, adequate ablution fa-

cilities. This contemporary market that

offers a wide variety of opportunities is

home to 51 tenants who offer traditio-

nal products. Namibian dishes as well

as Western cuisine and products are

also on display at this market. Council

has made provision to expand the mar-

ket in 2013/2014 financial year, and the

process to extend the market is under-

way.

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Ongwediva Town Council in its quest to develop and grow the town as the service hub of the

northern regions has availed land for the follow-

ing projects:

An eighteen (18) holes Golf Course & Estate

development: This development targets the

up market residential development and it

contains 197 erven.

Extension 18: This Extension is planned as a

high income residential area with 329 erven

Extension 19: This extension is also planned

as a high income residential area with 270

erven

EfidiProper: Planned as middle income resi-

dential area wit 324 erven

EfidiExtension1: Planned as middle income

residential are with 321 erven

Oshiko Build Together: Planned as low in-

come residential area with 250 erven

Expansion of Town lands with an area of

3 100 HA.

STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN


ONGWEDIVA SOCIAL HOUSING SCHEMEOngwediva Town Council has as an obligation to-

wards social empowerment and has developed

the Ongwediva Social Housing Scheme. These

are facilities provided for the public at a minimal

rental fee. So far twenty four (24) houses have

been completed at an amount of N$ 6, 970 000

which Council received from the Build Together Programme.

ONGWEDIVA RECREATIONAL PARKSituated on the eastern side of town, the recre-

ation site is a popular retreat for Ongwediva resi-

dents as well as tourists. Although not fully devel-

oped, this site offers a natural aroma where one

can listen to the birds and marvel at the tradi-

tional way of living just across the nearby village.

This park will be fully developed in the year 2017.

More recreational points are planned in the fu-

ture and they serve the purpose of unwind for the

residents and visitors to the town.

Coordinates: Country: Namibia

Administrative Division: Oshana

Area Total: 8 917,9341 Ha

Population: 19 300 (Namibia 2011 Census)

Time Zone: South African Standard

Time (UTC+1)

SOCIAL EMPOWERMENT

Ongwediva Social Housing Scheme

Ongwediva Recreational Park


SAM NUJOMA MULTI PURPOSE CENTREOngwediva Town Council fully understands its so-

cial responsibility and has thus established the Sam

Nujoma Multi Purpose Centre as its social arm. At

this centre a number of programmes are carried

out that are to the benefit of the community.

Among the activities is the;

After school program this program provides or-

phans and vulnerable children of Ongwediva with

free meals, psychosocial, care & educational sup-

port.

Behavior change and communication program;

with this program the community is provided with

information on behavior and diseases, alcohol

abuse and passion killing.

Community wellness and care; through this pro-

gram the center provides physical, emotional as

well as spiritual support to sick patients residing

in Ongwediva. The community also enjoys treat-

ment referral, clinical as well as hygienic support

through this program. The Center also offers rental

of office space, computer classes (these are free

to orphans) and it runs a sewing project for a

group of women who generate income through

their products.


STRATEGIES PURSUED

Ongwediva has tried and continue trying to

deliver and reach its desired position by pursu-

ing certain strategies. One such strategy was to

invest in proper town planning in terms of basic

services and road infrastructure which finally at-

tracted investments. Another strategy used was

to mould the well known Ongwediva Annual

Trade Fair which has aggressively marketed the

locality Ongwediva and its services. Ongwediva

Town Council has as part of its strategies attrac-

ted competent assets (personnel) who continue

to steer the town into a meaningful direction.

ONGWEDIVA OFFERS

Once you are in Ongwediva you are sure to en-

joy services from the following service providers:

Service stations,

Shopping centers for your convenience,

Medical facilities,

Commercial banks,

Primary and tertiary education facilities,

Entertainment centres, etc.

CONTACT DETAILSTel. +264 65 233725 | Fax. +264 230521 | [email protected]

www.ongwediva.com.na | P/Bag 5549, OngwedivaCrn of DR. Libertine Amathila and Mandume Ndemufuyo Street


Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) is a leading

trade and exhibition event on the Namibian Busi-

ness Calendar. It is also the single biggest event

in Northern Namibia that draws exhibitors, busi-

ness personalities, government leaders and visitors

from all corners of the country as well as across the

boundaries of Namibia.

The first OATF was opened in the year 2000 by the

Founding President of the Republic of Namibia, His

Excellency Dr. Sam Nujoma. Since then, the fair

has grown in leaps and bounds with growing pres-

sure from all quarters for the expansion of the fa-

cilities, a project that has been vigorously pursued

over the past fourteen years.

The Trade Fair, as the name indicates, is annual-

ly held at the modern Ongwediva Trade Centre

which first hosted the WIB SADC Exhibition in 2000.

Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre, by virtue of its stra-

tegic location, excellent infrastructure, services

and facilities, offers a conducive environment for

national and international business forums and ex-

hibitions.

SALOME SHIDUTE ORRUTH UUSIKU

Tel +264 65 23 [email protected]

CONTACT:

ONGWEDIVA ANNUAL TRADE FAIR (OATF) - THE FLAGSHIP OF NAMIBIAS EXHIBITION INDUSTRY


OATF is a great event to explore the full potential of trade, business and investment opportunities that Namibia and the rest of the SADC Region of-fers. The prospects of regional economic integra-tion, a subject of interest in the Region, call for pro-active initiatives to boost cross border investments and OATF therefore serves as an ideal platform to advance the regional objectives.

Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair is proudly sponsored by MTC.

Dont miss out on the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) during the last week of August every year.


Ongwediva Accommodation

1


YOUR FAR AWAY HOMELooking for a place like home? Mango Guesthouse offer af-fordable single, double & family rooms. A scrumptious break-fast included for double & single rooms. Tea and coffee Restaurant and Bar - now fully operational! Wireless internet Swimming pool Digital satellite television Well ventilated and fully air-conditioned rooms

Tel:+264(0)65231688Cell:+264(0)811245657/(0)811245434Fax:[email protected]

No4415LommelStreet,Ongwedivawww.mangoguesthouse.com


2

Mazizi Lodge offers you the quiet country ambience and it is situated along the Ongwediva/Ondangwa road, 21km from Ondangwa and 6km from Ongwediva, Ohakweenyanga village. Ten standard rooms fully equipped with private toilet and shower, TV, fridge and air conditioner plus five big family rooms fully equipped. Come and enjoy the personal touch in a family friendly atmosphere coupled with tranquility and bird life with lots of plants. Other services offered; catering service, landscaping & nursery. For event planning, you relax and we do the rest for you.

Tel:+264 (0)65 232 142 / Cell: +264 (0)81 245 5605 / Fax: +264 (0)65 230 529 E-mail: [email protected]

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At Pandus Bed & Breakfast we offer 14 self-catering units with air conditioning and television facilities. Each unit also contains a fully stocked bar fridge. We offer various types of rooms; not all units are thatched.

We are located on the Main Road between Ondangwa and Ongwediva, just after the UNAM HP Campus and just before the Select service station.

Tel:+264(0)85585889Fax:+264(0)65232073Cell:+264(0)[email protected]

P.O. Box 8838, Ongwediva, Namibia

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Travelling to Ondangwa, Ongwediva and Oshakati can be a long and gruelling experience especially by road. This is when one truly appreciates the quiet-cool-peacefulness of a cared-for garden with large shady trees and bright colour-ful flowers. Spacious en-suite single and double rooms each with TV, air-conditioner, mosquito net, fridge and coffee or tea waiting in the restful shade of the numerous large trees that fill the garden. You can also enjoy the wide variety of birds including guinea fowl and doves while having your breakfast or viewing the beautiful sunset.

Tel:+264(0)65231049Cell:+264(0)811249109GPS:174656.82S154511.45E

[email protected]

4


Ongwediva Amenities & Services


Ongwediva Commercial & Industrial


Mandate: Oshakati Town Council is being guided by the Mandate of Local Authority as provided in Section 30 of the Local Authority Act, (Act 23 of 1992) as amended subject to part VI up to part XII of 2000, which includes; provision of portable water, sewerage systems and drainage, cemeteries, streets and public places, housing schemes, immovable proper-ties of Local Authority Council, valuation of ratable and non-ratable properties within the local authority area.

Mission: Oshakati Town Council exists to offer quality and affordable services to the residents through integrity and honesty by ensuring that the town is habitable, prosperous and industri-alized in a sustainable manner.

Vision: To be the commercial and residential capital of the north, driven by quality service rendering and best customer service.

Local Economical Development: Oshakati is strategically located in the centre of the North. It is known by the name Oshakati shaNangombe and caters for the four north-ern regions and other neighbouring regions such as Kavango, Zambezi and Kunene.

Major development in the townOshakati has several shopping malls and complexes - Game and Etango shopping mall. Yellow & Mvula Mnyango shopping complex among others.Magistrate and High Court Financial institutions First National Bank, Standard Bank, Bank Windhoek, Nedbank, Agri-Bank and Bank of NamibiaGovernment institutions different ministries State Owned Enterprises- NBC, Road Au- thority, Social Security Commision, GIPF, NHE among others.The town has the intermediate State Hos- pital OshakatiIntermediate Hospital which is referral hospital for the northern regionsUniversity of Namibia OSHAKATI CAMPUS

Oshakati


Capital/Developmental Projects

Servicing of land for residential and business purposesFormalization of informal settlements New townships establishment Upgrading of road, water and sewerage networksCreation of recreation parks

Mayor of Oshakati: His Worship Onesimus Shilunga

Deputy Mayor:Honourable Ndamononghenda Hamunjela

ChiefExecutiveOfficer:Mr Werner Iita

Contact DetailsTel: +264 (65) 229-500Fax:+264 (65) 220-435 Oshakati Town Council906 Sam Nujoma Road, Civic Center, Oshakati [email protected] | www.oshtc.na

Oshakati


A very warm welcome, to Namibia lodge 2000 & Safari, offering you pristine nature of Uukwangula ambi-ence. Come and enjoy remarkable & breathtaking viewing of the sunrise & sunset as well as endless hori-zons of the Lutshetshete Pan. Our friendly staff will ensure that your stay with us is indeed worth your while. Team building facilities Dining out Bar Sleep in our spacious, private & comfortable rooms Confer-ences: workshops / weddings / mini meetings Photography & print Business centre with wifi Ice blocks Meat cutting and many more Private lounge and swimming pool.

Oshakat West, 5km Okahao Road, en-route Omugulu-GwobasheTel:+264(0)65220853/Fax:+264(0)65220469Cell:+264(0)812818722

[email protected]

Oshakati Accommodation

6


Oshakati Amenities & Services


Oshakati Commercial & Industrial


Oshakati Commercial & Industrial Oshakati Commercial & Industrial


Oshakati Commercial & Industrial


Oshakati Commercial & Industrial Oshakati Commercial & Industrial


Ondangwa is one of the oldest historic towns in the North Central regions of the country. The town was established as a missionary center in the 1800s. After that it became known as an assembly point, as people flocked to Ondan-gwa to look for employment in the Southern towns, including South African mines in the late 1950 and 1960s. Due to its central location, the town was later used by the South African Army as their admi-nistrative centre up until Independence, and thus the only Airport of international standard in the entire North of the country is to be found here in Ondangwa. Ondangwa continued to be an administrative centre from independence until 1992 when the

new regional structure was designed by the current government, proclaiming it as a town in 1992 under the Ministry of Regional Local Government and Housing and becoming an autonomous town in 1998. Currently the town has seven elected councilors and between 60 full time staff members, headed by the Chief Executive Officer. Ondangwa is located in the Oshana Region which is the most populated area of the coun-try. This beautiful town is situated on the main road to and from the North, offering an airport and a train station and it is only 60 km away from the Namibian-Angolan border.

Ondangwa


Ondangwa town caters for more than half of the population of the Oshana and Oshikoto regions in terms of shopping and other vital services. The town has a population of about 30 000 residents, but this figures increases more than double during the day as many people do come for shopping and other services in town from the nearby villages.

The business and economic sector of Ondang-wa is still in its growing stage compared to other towns within the region. More than 50% of the economically active population is employed in the agricultural sector.

From the Councils point of view, businesss op-portunities could be in the following sectors:

INDUSTRYThe industry sector of Ondangwa is underdeve-loped despite its location and and the close pro-ximity of the town to neighboring country Angola.

There are a few industrial developments in the town such as the Northern Tannery, manufactu-ring leather from hides and skins from local abat-toirs, Ondangwa Plastic Converters manufactu-ring plastic tanks and other plastic products India Namibia Plastic Technology offering advice and technical support for upcoming manufacturers in plastic technology, Namib Foam manufacturing mattresses and all other foam related products and many companies manufacturing building materials such as bricks, stones and concrete for construction purposes, Chem Paints manufactu-ring different kinds of paints.

The recent opening of Gwashamba Mall has cre-ated a great outlet and opportunity for shopping lovers and the retail industry as a whole.

Ondangwa


TOURISM, ART AND CULTURE Tourism is not yet fully developed in Ondangwa. The town is mainly providing accommodation establishments for local travellers. Although there are possibilities to develop tourist attrac-tions in Ondangwa, such as Eco Tourism, Culture Tourism and Art and Craft Centres, this has not yet been exploited.

HOTEL & ACCOMMODATIONOndangwa does have high traveler statistics from other parts of the country but very low fi-gures from travelers abroad that come and stay in and around town. Places such as Ekamuti Lodge, Ondangwa Town Lodge, Ondangwa Air-port Lodge and Ondangwa Rest Camp are a hit to local visitors. However, establishments need to adapt to more modern and market relevant pricing and marketing structures.

LEISURE, RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENTOndangwa, with its growing population of work-ing youth and young adults lacks entertainment facilities, clubs and restaurants. Young people mostly go to nearby towns for social engage-ment over weekends. Establishing more busi-nesses that host events on a regular basis could

tap a potential market that could provide good returns on investment.

VisionManagement and staff members of the OTC demonstrate their sense of purpose through their vision and wish to translate their mission into mean-ingful results using their vision listed hereunder. To become the an effective engine of sustainable development. Mission The mission statement of the OTC, defines the nature and core purpose of this town council:

To govern and administer local affairs of the in-habitants of Ondangwa town through planning, coordination and partnership in the delivery of urban services towards socio-economic deve-lopment and improved quality of life.

CONTACT US:Tel:+264 65 240101 | Fax:+264 65 240453Ondangwa Town CouncilPrivate Bag 2032, OndangwaE-mail: marketing @ondangwatown.comwww.ondangwatown.com

Ondangwa


Ekamuti Lodge and Conference Centre in Ondangwa, offers a new world of conference possibilities with

the state-of-art facilities. The lodge has an auditorium for 1200 delegates, convention space for 600 del-

egates, Wi-Fi internet access, a gym and a massage parlour. The lodge has 40 clean upmarket en-suite

bedrooms, with air conditioning and flatscreen TV. Enjoy a drink in one of our two bars after which you can

enjoy a delicious meal in our restaurant. We cant wait to welcome you at Ekamuti Town Lodge!

Tel:+264(0)65246357Fax:+264(0)65246311Cell:+264(0)811272566OndangwaP.O.Box23128,[email protected]

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Ondangwa Accommodation


Ondangwa Accommodation

Koonyaka Guesthouse offers 23 air conditioned double rooms, all equipped with television sets. Furthermore we offer a public bar and VIP Bar and Lounge to relax and unwind after a busy day. Our conference facility can accommodate up to 150 people. Our restaurant and swimming pool are near completion.

We are located on the main road Aakwenyanga between Ondangwa and Ongwediva, about 2 km from the Oshiko road block.

Tel:065238094Cell:0812926585/[email protected]

8


Ondangwa Amenities & Services


Ondangwa Commercial & Industrial


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

. . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .KKUNENE REGIONThe Kunene Region in north-western Namibia is bor-

dered by the Kunene River in the north (forming the

boundary between Namibia and Angola); the Erongo

Region in the south; the Etosha National Park and

Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa re-

gions in the north-east; and the Atlantic Ocean in the

west. The 2011 census enumerated the population in

the Kunene Region as 86,856. Opuwo is the largest

town in the region and serves as its capital.

The region is still commonly referred to by its pre-in-

dependence names of Kaokoland or Kaokoveld. Due

to the remote setting, inaccessibility of its mountain-

ous terrain, and the dry climate that significantly

hinders agriculture, it is one of the wildest and least

populated regions in Namibia. It is relatively under-

developed compared to the rest of the country.

The landscape in this rugged region varies from

mountain ranges, extensive valleys seasonally cov-

ered in undulating expanses of golden grass, dry riv-

er courses, and the coastal Namib Desert. It is much

sought-after by four-by-four enthusiasts because of

the rough terrain and for its spectacular scenic beau-

ty. Moreover, Kaokoland is home to the nomadic and

much-publicised Himba people and imposing fea-

tures such as the Epupa Falls.


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ..................

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The Epupa Falls, known as the Monte Negro Falls in

Angola, are located 135 km (84 miles) downstream

on the border of Angola and Namibia. They are cha-

racterised by a series of drops, totalling some 60 me-

tres over a distance of about 1.5 km, with the greatest

single drop being 37 metres. The name Epupa refers

to the spray from these gushing falls, and originates

from the language of the Himba people.

With impressive sunsets and a magnificent array of

bird life, visiting the Epupa Falls is a highlight when

exploring the Kunene Region. Spectacular rock for-

mations with rich textured colouring are set off by a

variety of trees, including the stately baobab. Birdlife

ranges from the African fish eagle to kingfishers. Due

to the specialised nature of this steep riverbank habi-

tat, the Epupa Falls harbours several endemic fish and

other aquatic species.

EPUPA FALLS


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The capital of the Kunene Region is Opuwo. During

the apartheid era when Namibia referred to then as

South West Africa and administered by South Africa

as a mandate or Bantustan Kaokoland was intended

to be a self-governing Himba homeland. However,

an actual government was never established. Never-

theless, like other homelands in the then South West

Africa, the Kaokoland Bantustan was abolished in

May 1989, at the beginning of the transition of Na-

mibia towards independence.

The name Opuwo was given to the settlement by the

legendary commissioner of Ondangwa, Hugo Hahn,

who came in search of land to build an office. Upon

his arrival, he asked local headmen to give him land

for this purpose. The headmen gave him a small plot,

and when they tried to give him more land, Mr Hahn

responded: Opuwo (its enough for me). I dont want

any more land. The local residents of Opuwo called

it Otjihinamaparero at the time, and some still call

it that.

First-time travellers could well drive right through

Opuwo without even being aware they were dri-

ving through a town. For those who do stop, one of

the first things they are likely to notice is the large

number of churches, a characteristic of many towns

and settlements in Namibia. Another surprise would

be that Opuwo is not inhabited exclusively by Him-

bas, but is a melting pot in its own right, as it is also

home to Hereros, especially those belonging to the

Tjimba or antbear tribe, Owambos, a smattering of

Portuguese (who trekked from Angola to Namibia in

search of a safer place to live during the civil unrest

of the mid-1970s), and even small communities of

former South Africans.

OPUWO


OPUWO

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Most people in Opuwo live on the outskirts of town

in informal dwellings they have built themselves.

A captivating feature of the town is the incidence

of locals dressed in traditional Himba attire, espe-

cially the women with their leather headdresses

and body adornments made from animal hide, iron

and shell beads. Herero women wearing their tra-

ditional Victorian attire are also seen here, their

extraordinary headdresses with two curved exten-

sions on either side symbolising cattle horns. There

is usually a brooch between the horns, often with

matching brooches worn on their scarves.

Opuwo is a place that seems to have evolved at

random. The buildings and grounds are positioned

in a haphazard way between open spaces of arid

land amongst large irrigation ditches with no brid-

ges over them. One of these complexes, which now

functions as the school, was part of the defence

force basis during the war years.

South of Opuwo, near Warmquelle, the small set-

tlement of Sesfontein its name derived from the

six fountains that have their source in the vicinity

is well worth a visit for its historical significance.

Almost a hundred years after it was first built, the

historical monument, originally a police outpost,

was reconstructed and equipped to accommodate

tourists. The palm trees at the fort were planted by

the German police officers stationed at Sesfontein

to combat weapons smuggling and elephant and

rhino poaching.


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The well-known author and traveller Lawrence G

Green visited Kaokoveld and the Skeleton Coast

in the early 1950s with what was later to become

known as the Carp Expedition. He gives an account

of his experiences in his famous book, Lords of the

Last Frontier.

The base camp for the explorers was at Orupembe,

the place where the plains begin, about 65 kilome-

tres from Rocky Point. From there the party went on

to meet the Tjimba people at Otjiu on the banks of

the Hoarusib. The Tjimba were impoverished Herero

who were no longer part of the large and wealthy

families and clans. They are said to have migrated to

the Kaokoveld from the north. They lost their cattle

and became hunter-gatherers of such food as they

could find. Because they dug for their food like ant-

bears, they became known as the Tjimba or antbear

people. Other Herero, who managed to retain their

cattle, moved further south and became known as the

Himba or boasters. The difference between the Tjim-

ba and the Himba is therefore one of possessions, the

Himba having the cattle with which to boast.

Green also visited Sesfontein, or Zessfontein, mean-

ing water from six fountains. Situated on the south-

ern border of Kaokoveld, it was the lost world of

Shangri-La of the Khoikhoi. In early days two

Khoikhoi groups, the Topnaar and Swartbooi, lived

at Sesfontein. The Topnaar were also called !Nara-

nin, after the !nara melon that was then their staple.

For this reason they were looked down upon as being

almost like hunter-gatherers.

THE PEOPLE OF THE REGION


THE PEOPLE OF THE REGION

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The most represented ethnic group in the Kunene Re-

gion is the Himba, a nomadic people who still live

according to ancient customs and traditions, eking

out an existence by farming with cattle and goats.

Visiting a Himba settlement to photograph these true

denizens of the desert has become one of the main

targets for visitors to the Kunene Region.

In the Himba social structure the women are respon-

sible for milking the cows, and taking care of the

children. They tend to perform more labour-intensive

work than men, such as carrying water to the village

and building homes. Men handle the political tasks

and legal trials, and herd and slaughter cattle for spe-

cial occasions.

Members of an extended family typically dwell in

small, circular hamlet of huts and work shelters that

surround the ancestral fire and a central livestock en-

closure. Both the fire and the livestock are closely

tied to the Himbas belief in worship of the ances-

tors, the fire representing ancestral protection and the

livestock allowing proper relations between human

and ancestor. Traditionally both men and women go

topless and wear skirts or loincloths made of animal

skins. Adult women wear beaded anklets to protect

their legs from venomous animal bites, and are fa-

mous for rich red colour of their skins. This is created

by the mixture of butterfat and ground red ochre that

they rub over their bodies as protection against the

rigours of the sun, symbolising earths richness and

the blood of life, and reflecting the Himba ideal of

beauty. Renowned for their tall, slender physique and

the beauty of their sculptural features, Himba women

are much sought-after by photographers and artists.

Himba hairstyles indicate age and social status. Chil-

dren have two plaits of braided hair. From the onset

of puberty the girls plaits are moved over their eyes,

and they can have more than two. Married women

wear headdresses with many streams of braided

hair that are coloured and shaped with the butterfat

mixture. Single men wear one plait down the back

of their necks, while married men wear a turban of

many butterfat-soaked plaits.

THE HIMBA


Opuwo


Opuwo is the capital of the Kunene Region. It has a popu-lation of 15,000 people and is situated in the North-West of

Namibia, 720 km from Windhoek.

It is the gateway to the fascinating Himba people and the

famous Epupa Falls. The area is rich in mineral deposits and

boasts beautiful landscapes.

Opuwo was only officially declard as a town in November

2000. In the olden days the mail between Opuwo and Ondan-

gwa was delivered by a runner once a week and inhabitants

still used the old manual exchange telephones. The nearest

bank was 300 km away in Oshakati and only in the 1990s

television, FM radio and automatic telephone systems were

introduced.

Nowadays Opuwo has modern communication systems, com-

mercial banks and shops as well as many tourist attractions.

Regional offices of most government ministries are also repre-

sented in Opuwo.

The annual Opuwo Trade Fair is an important event on the cal-

endar of Opuwo Town Council. Being held at the end of May,

this event has attracted over 100 exhibitors in the past and

provides an opportunity for economic growth of Opuwo by

attracting investors and new business ventures to the Kunene

Region.

Tel:+264(0)65273007Fax:+26465273250www.opuwo.info

Opuwo


VISION: To be the leading and a well-developed town in Namibia with modern infrastructure and

skilled human resources, providing excellent services.

MISSION: Opuwo Town Council is committed to meet and exceed its communities, stakeholders

and visitors expectations, within the constraint of resources and to allow full participation of all, with

the aim to unleash their potential in a responsive and environmentally friendly manner. We are the

gateway to the famous Epupa Falls, beautiful landscape, rich mineral deposits and boast a rich and

unique indigenous culture.

Mayor - Cllr Tuarungua Kavari (Swapo)

Deputy Mayor - Cllr Rebbeca Iipinge (Swapo)

Chairperson Management - Cllr Rex T. Sheehama (Swapo)

Dep Chair Management - Cllr Anna M Engombe (Swapo)

Member of Management - Cllr Licius Mupya (NUDO)

Additional member - Cllr Uaurikua C. Kakuva (DTA)

Additional member - Cllr Katahunda S Matundu (DTA)

CEO - Mr. Alphons Tjitombo

Mayor - Cllr Tuarungua KavariDeputy Mayor - Cllr Rebbeca Lipinge

Opuwo


The OHAKANE Guest House in Opuwo, Kaokoland offers you: Luxury accommodation with air-conditioning Full board and bar service in a relaxed atmosphere Guided tours take you off the beaten track on excursions to Himba villages Guided 4x4 camping trips Transportation and tour-guide service for fly-in visitors Our experienced guides will show you the harsch beauty of Kaokoland and its fragile environ-ment in fully equipped 4x4 vehicles.

Tel:+264(0)65273031Fax:+264(0)65273025

[email protected]

The lodge is situated on a hilltop with breathtaking views overlooking a valley with magnificent sunsets and offering 360 view of the surrounding area. The lodge offers 21 luxury twins rooms, 1 luxury double room, 3 sets of twin inter leading rooms (6 rooms) and 12 standard twin rooms. Rooms have en-suite bathrooms and are fitted with air conditioners. The lodge have an excellent bar and restaurant where guests can enjoy mouth watering meals, a private lounge next to the wine cellar offers a relaxed atmosphere and place to enjoy an evening with friends. Opuwo Country lodge offers 12 large camping sites. All the camping sites have 220v electricity, ablution facilities with hot and cold water, barbeque area and wash up facilities.

ReservationsTel:+26464418661ReservationsFax:+26464405596LodgeTel:+26465273461LodgeFax:[email protected]

www.opuwolodge.comGPS:18240.2Latitude,134959.9Longitude.

Opuwo Accommodation

9

10


Opuwo Amenities & Services


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OOMUSATI REGIONThe Omusati Region in north-western Namibia is bordered by the Kunene River and Angola in the north, the Kunene Region in the south and west,

the Oshana Region in the east and the Ohangwena

Region in the north-east. In the 2011 census, the

population in Omusati was counted as 243,166. The

region is characterised by the mopane tree, omusati,

after which it was named, and is home to the famous

Ruacana Falls.

ONE OF THE LARGEST FALLS IN AFRICASituated 135 km upstream from the Epupa Falls in

the Kunene Region, the Ruacana Falls is one of the

largest waterfalls in Africa, both by volume and by

width. It is 120 metres (390 feet) high and 700 me-

tres (2,300 feet) wide when in full flood. Shaped like

a wide semi-crescent, the falls straddle the border of

Angola and Namibia, and are listed as being within

Namibia due to the location of the primary view-

points. Since the volume of the Kunene River fluctu-

ates significantly from season to season, the actual

width and volume of this feature varies greatly. De-

pending on the time of year, visitors can choose to

participate in adventure activities such as white-wa-

ter rafting and canoeing, and, if really lucky, could

even spot a crocodile in the process.

The river has been harnessed for hydroelectric pro-

duction immediately above the falls. During the dry

season the water is syphoned off entirely and the falls

run dry. From roughly December to June, the annual

rains provide sufficient water for the hydroelectric

project, and in the remaining months of the year the

falls return to their impressive natural state.

The Kunene is suitable for white-water rafting and

canoeing but beware of the crocodiles!


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Located on the banks of the Kunene River, Rua-

cana is known for the picturesque Ruacana Falls

nearby, and for its underground hydroelectric plant

that is linked to the nearby dam across the border

at Calueque in Angola. In 1988, during the Ango-

lan Civil War, the dam and pumping station were

bombed in a Cuban air strike. A few years later the

facility was partially repaired and today NamPow-

er operates three turbines producing a maximum of

240 megawatts.

Situated near Ruacana is the government-suppor-

ted irrigation scheme on the farm Etunda, extending

over 600 hectares (1,500 acres). It was established

in 1993. Half of the farm is commercial irrigation

land, while the other half is allocated to 82 small-

scale farmers. Maize, wheat, watermelons, bana-

nas and other crops are cultivated at Etunda.

RUACANA TOWN, DAM AND ETUNDA


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Samuel Daniel Shafiishuna Nujoma, the first Presi-

dent of Namibia, was born in the Omusati Region.

He led the South-West Africa Peoples Organization

(SWAPO) in its long struggle against South African

rule and took office as President when Namibia ob-

tained independence on 21 March 1990.

Sam Nujoma was born on 12 May 1929 as the eldest

of eleven children from Helvi Mpingana Kondom-

bolo and her husband, Daniel Uutoni Nujoma, in

the Etunda village in the Ongandjera District, the

Omusati Region of today. He spent his early years

tending the familys few cattle and goats. His primary

education began at night school, and he left school

at age 16 to become a railway dining-car steward.

After a fellow worker was sent home without com-

pensation following a serious injury, Nujoma tried to

form a trade union for railway men, but was then dis-

charged from the railways. He subsequently worked

as a clerk and a store assistant.

In the late 1950s he helped establish the Ovam-

boland Peoples Organization, the forerunner of the

South West Africa Peoples Organization (SWAPO).

He went into exile in 1960 and was named presi-

dent of SWAPO after it was founded on April 19 of

that year. In 1966, after several years of fruitlessly

petitioning the United Nations to compel South Af-

rica to release control of South West Africa, SWAPO

embarked on an armed struggle.

BIRTHPLACE OF NAMIBIAS FOUNDING FATHER

Sam Nujoma


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While SWAPOs guerrilla force, the Peoples Libera-

tion Army of Namibia (PLAN), failed to liberate any

territory, it succeeded in focussing international at-

tention on Namibia. In 1973 the UN General Assem-

bly recognised SWAPO as the sole legitimate repre-

sentative of the Namibian people, and in 1978 the

Security Council adopted Resolution 435, which set

out terms for eventual Namibian independence. This

was finally accepted by South Africa in 1988. In Sep-

tember 1989, after nearly 30 years in exile, Nujoma

returned to Namibia to lead SWAPO to victory in the

UN-supervised November elections. On the day of

Namibias independence, March 21, 1990, Nujoma

was sworn in as president.

Although often accused of being a Marxist, Nujoma

professed himself drawn more to the pragmatism

of Scandinavian democratic socialism. In 1994 he

was re-elected president, and in 1998 the SWAPO-

controlled parliament agreed to amend the constitu-

tion, allowing Nujoma to run for a third term. The

move drew international and domestic criticism, but

Nujoma easily won re-election in 1999. He later

announced that he would not run for a fourth term,

and in 2005 stepped down from office, allowing for

a peaceful transfer of power to his democratically

elected successor, Hifikepunye Pohamba (SWAPO).

Nujoma bowed out as president of SWAPO in

2007.


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gateway to northern namibia - the official guide

Documents

oshana region pg

scents of namibia pg

owambo regions pg

oshakati town council

ongwediva town council

ondangwa town council

opuwo town council pg

mayors foreword pg