By Lylie Happiness
Oshakati, July 4, The Olufuko Cultural Festival, now in its ninth edition, officially kicked off today in the town of Outapi, located in the Omusati region. Taking place from July 1 to July 7, 2023, at the Olufuko Centre, the event has garnered significant participation and excitement.
A total of 257 exhibitors have registered for the festival, showcasing a wide range of products and services. Additionally, 30 girls have registered for the initiation ceremony, a significant part of the festival’s cultural traditions.
Festival Patron Sam Nujoma, the Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation, emphasized the festival’s role in empowering the girl child as they celebrate its ninth edition. Nujoma reflected on the progress made in the past 32 years, particularly in improving the participation of girls and young women in the education system. Recognizing that the future of any nation relies on the education of its younger generation, he highlighted the importance of investing in the education of future leaders to respond to the challenges of social and economic development.”Investment in educating future leaders produces the greatest yield, as it builds a new generation of citizens equal not only in rights but also in access to opportunities,” Nujoma stated. He stressed the need to equip the younger generation with knowledge, skills, cognitive ability, and drive to enhance productivity and improve competitiveness in a globalized world. Furthermore, he emphasized the responsibility shared by the government, businesses, labor, educators, parents, and community and traditional leaders in achieving these goals, as they will all benefit from the investment made in children’s education.
Nujoma called for the development of a culture of lifelong learning, continuous professional development, and knowledge promotion, which are essential for the growth and success of any nation.
Town Mayor Selma Asino highlighted that the Olufuko Festival is not solely focused on cultural activities but also serves as a platform for local business people to showcase their products and services. Asino expressed pride in the council’s efforts to revive and expand the festival this year, making it bigger and better than ever.
Despite their commitment to cultural preservation, Asino acknowledged the ongoing challenge of some institutions refusing to recognize the festival’s cultural significance, often mislabeling it as satanic. She expressed disappointment at the discouragement of partners and sponsors from participating in the festivities due to such misconceptions. Nonetheless, she affirmed the council’s dedication to celebrating their culture through the hosting of the Olufuko Festival, with the overarching goal of preserving it for future generations.
As the Olufuko Cultural Festival continues, attendees can look forward to a vibrant celebration of culture, empowerment of girls, and the promotion of education and lifelong learning. ~ Namibia Daily News
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