Nujoma highlights importance of Olufuko
Founding president and patron of the Olufuko Annual Cultural Festival, Sam Nujoma, has condemned the notion that the festival encourages child marriage.
"There are people who are saying that we are encouraging child marriage by hosting Olufuko; let me make it categorically clear that initiation is not marriage but the rite of passage for girls from childhood to adulthood," he stressed.
Nujoma, who was speaking at the official opening of the festival this week, stressed that the festival is an opportunity to educate girls about their culture.
More than 30 young women are participating in the Olufuko festival of their own free will and with the consent of their parents, Nujoma said.
He also called on attendees not to apologise for their culture and to reject "cultural enslavement".
Nujoma urged the young women taking part in the festival to finish their education, saying the festival's purpose is to help them become responsible citizens who are aware of their cultural norms and values.
Diversity and economy
Outapi Mayor Selma Asino said the festival promotes an understanding of cultural diversity.
She further highlighted that the festival serves as a celebration of rich cultural history and plays a significant role in helping individuals connect with their roots and heritage.
Close to 260 exhibitors have signed up to promote their services and products at the event.
Asino underlined that the festival supports local small and medium enterprises, which boost the region’s economy.
"All SME’s should continue providing their services and products even after the exhibitions in order to build a sustainable and vibrant economy," she said.
"There are people who are saying that we are encouraging child marriage by hosting Olufuko; let me make it categorically clear that initiation is not marriage but the rite of passage for girls from childhood to adulthood," he stressed.
Nujoma, who was speaking at the official opening of the festival this week, stressed that the festival is an opportunity to educate girls about their culture.
More than 30 young women are participating in the Olufuko festival of their own free will and with the consent of their parents, Nujoma said.
He also called on attendees not to apologise for their culture and to reject "cultural enslavement".
Nujoma urged the young women taking part in the festival to finish their education, saying the festival's purpose is to help them become responsible citizens who are aware of their cultural norms and values.
Diversity and economy
Outapi Mayor Selma Asino said the festival promotes an understanding of cultural diversity.
She further highlighted that the festival serves as a celebration of rich cultural history and plays a significant role in helping individuals connect with their roots and heritage.
Close to 260 exhibitors have signed up to promote their services and products at the event.
Asino underlined that the festival supports local small and medium enterprises, which boost the region’s economy.
"All SME’s should continue providing their services and products even after the exhibitions in order to build a sustainable and vibrant economy," she said.
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