Reno for OtjikaTjamuaha Holy Shrine
The German Embassy, represented by Ambassador Herbert Beck, and the Samuel Maharero Heritage Foundation, represented by Kenandei Tjivikua and Hirukevi Kaapama, recently signed an agreement for the renovation of the OtjikaTjamuaha Holy Shrine at Okahandja.The foundation will receive around N$2.3 million to renovate both the graves and the surrounding area until 2024.
The project aims to renovate the site to restore the dignity of the persons buried there as well as that of their descendants. Further, the project aims to enable the sustainable use of the site for educational and historical purposes, both for Namibians as well as foreign visitors.
Commenting at the signing, Tjivikua stated that “after a protracted application process, the foundation is excited that we secured this funding that will assist in restoring and preserving important traditional and cultural symbols for posterity. We embrace and cherish this gesture.”
The OtjikaTjamuaha Holy Shrine is the burial site of prominent late Ovaherero leaders, descended from the OtjikaTjamuaha dynasty, including Tjamuaha, Maharero, and Samuel Maharero. The site is an important symbol of the Namibian national heritage, which has fallen into a state of dilapidation in the last few years.
The project is funded through the cultural preservation fund of the German Federal Foreign Office.