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Herero woman, Namibia

Okakarara
Namibia

Okakarara lies a few kilometres south-east of the Waterberg Park on the C22. Once this area was the homeland "Hereroland". Today one can still observe the traditional way of life for the Herero. In the centre of each settlement in Hereroland lies the cattle kraal, an area fenced off with long wooden sticks to protect the herds from nocturnal predators. The Hereros have been herders for hundreds of years. Their lives revolve around their herds of cattle as they form the basis of their economy and are an important status symbol. "Without cattle a man is nothing", they say. Many of the animals are believed to be holy and can only be slaughtered for sacrificial purposes while others may only be killed on special occasions, e.g. when the owner of the herd dies.
The ancestral cult still plays an important role in the lives of many Herero people. In the evenings, they often sit in front of the 'Okuruo'; the holy fire, which may never be allowed to burn out. The chief establishes contact with the ancestors and in a loud self-talk, asks for advice and help or confesses mistakes and sins.

The pasture lands are poor in Hereroland due to the high number of cattle and a low rainfall; the area is hopelessly overgrazed.
Herero women, Namibia
cattle kraal, Namibia
The sour milk called 'Omaere' forms the basis of the Herero's diet. It is stored in big calebashes and every evening, fresh milk is added. In the mornings the chief first tries it and then women and children may drink from it.
Top: Herero women in traditional headgear. Below: Cattle kraal. Left: Calebashes with Omaere. The women wait for the chief to try the sour milk.

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