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Focus on Culture...7/1/2008
The Himba, northern NamibiaNamibia boasts a rich ethnic diversity and cultural heritage. One of the most distinct ethnic groups is the Himba, semi-nomadic pastoralists who live in scattered settlements throughout the Kunene Region of northern Namibia.
The oldest living member of the patrilineage segment ("headman") is designated as Omuini Wokuruwo ("Keeper or of the Fire") and must preside at all functions pertaining to it until his death. At that time, his hut is destroyed, the fire scattered and his family dances in mourning throughout the night. Then, a fresh mopane tree is lit from the embers of the old fire and the fire is passed on to its new keeper. To each successive generation the Fire is known as the "Fire of the most recently deceased Keeper." His name will be invoked during the prayers to the deceased. In theory, the living Keeper, together with the deceased Keepers (whose names will be successively invoked as far back as they are known) form an unbroken chain stretching from the living generation all the way back to Makuru or God with whom it is believed the origin of humankind began. The ancestors, in turn, will bless the living via the Fire and its Keeper. Thus, in addition to serving as a spiritual medium the fire is a powerful tool in maintaining the Himba's genealogical connections and cultural identity. Although the Himba are a nomadic people, there are potential opportunities for interaction in the remotest reaches of Namibia. Skeleton Coast Camp, within the Skeleton Coast Park, one of our planet's most inhospitable yet hauntingly beautiful places, offers activities that may include a visit to Himba kraals. Serra Cafema Camp, an unexpected oasis of comfort and sumptuous spaciousness perched on the Kunene River, is often visited by Himba families, which gives guests the opportunity to learn firsthand about their lifestyle and traditions. Gallery Tours in Gauteng, South AfricaDue to popular demand four new tours have been introduced in and around Johannesburg, which will appeal to those interested in viewing and/or purchasing indigenous fine arts. These include a Johannesburg Art Gallery Tour, a Johannesburg Art Gallery & Soweto Tour, a Pretoria Art Gallery Tour, and a Pretoria Art Gallery & Voortrekker Monument Tour. Please contact us for detailed information The Cape Minstrels' Carnival in Cape Town, South Africa
Colonial High Tea at the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa
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