Namibia opens first Ovaherero living cultural museum to boost tourism

WINDHOEK, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Namibia officially opened the first recognized Ovaherero Living Cultural Museum on Thursday in the Kunene Region to promote sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation while benefiting the local community.

At the inauguration ceremony, Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta highlighted the museum's strategic location near the Etosha Galton Gate, which is expected to attract significant tourist traffic.

"This museum will serve as a major cultural and tourist attraction, generating income and employment for the community," Shifeta said.

Shifeta emphasized the importance of cultural tourism, noting that it is underdeveloped in Namibia.

"This museum will spark interest in local and international tourists, enhancing their understanding of the Ovaherero culture and traditions," he said.

According to Shifeta, the Kunene Region, known for its spectacular landscapes and free-ranging wildlife, is a key area for tourism development in Namibia. The region is also home to unique species such as free-roaming black rhinos and desert-dwelling elephants, making it a prime destination for eco-tourists.

"The opening of this museum marks a significant step toward sustainable community development and biodiversity conservation in Namibia," Shifeta said.

The Ovaherero Living Cultural Museum is part of Namibia's broader initiative to establish living museums across the country, aimed at preserving cultural heritage while creating economic opportunities for rural communities.

There are now eight museums that provide interactive cultural experiences, allowing visitors to engage with and learn about Namibia's diverse ethnic groups and their traditions.