By: Annakleta Haikera
Urban and Rural Development Minister, James Sankwasa, has stressed the importance of safeguarding Namibia’s traditional customs and culture against external interference.
Speaking at the official designation of Hompa Eugene Siwombe Kudumo as the new Ukwangali chief at the Kahenge Tribal Office in Kavango West on 30 August 2025, Sankwasa said newly-recognised chiefs have a key responsibility to “promote peace, preserve culture, and ensure community unity.”
He cautioned that as long as he remains in office, he will not allow outside forces to undermine Namibia’s strong cultural values.
“Once I leave office, people can do as they wish, but while I am in charge, our traditions will be protected,” he stated.
During the ceremony, Sankwasa officially handed over the instruments of government to Chief Kudumo, including the Namibian Constitution, the Traditional Authorities Act, and the Communal Land Reform Act, to guide him in administering his authority in line with national laws.
The minister expressed his commitment to working closely with Kudumo, adding that “a chief’s role is to promote peace and unity.”
Although Chief Kudumo was coronated 11 years ago, he had not received official government recognition until last month.
The long-awaited event drew traditional leaders, government officials, and community members who gathered to witness and celebrate his formal recognition as head of the Ukwangali Traditional Authority.
CULTURE MUST COME FIRST, SAYS HOMPA KUDUMO
Echoing Sankwasa, Kudumo has urged his community to prioritise cultural revival, warning that without strong traditions, future generations risk losing their identity.
Kudumo urged parents to teach traditional values at home.
“If you don’t know your culture, how will your child know what culture is?” he prompted.
He appealed to churches to preach what is right, including biblical support for customary law, and encouraged Namibians to uphold their traditions rather than adopt foreign practices.
He added that in October, he pledged to visit his entire community and employ people to bring culprits of crime before the traditional authority to face disciplinary action.
Turning to law and social matters, Kudumo questioned Namibia’s reliance on Roman and Dutch legal systems, calling instead for homegrown laws that reflect the country’s values. He also reiterated his support for polygamy, saying it is part of tradition, while warning that the rise of LGBTQ+ identities may create social challenges.
The Hompa concluded with a call for unity, discipline, and cultural preservation as the pillars of a strong Uukwangali society.
Meanwhile, Sambyu traditional authority leader, Hompa Sofia Kanyetu, also placed emphasis on holding strong cultural values.
She also added that culture was once respected before a Hompa died and anointed their successor, but these days court battles for the postion have become the norm.
