Culture and Religion

 Our culture , traditions and language are the foundations upon which we build our identity and constantly  remind ourselves of who we are. Some believed that traditions change, but I believe that tradition does not change only culture . Traditions are passed on from one generation to the other while culture is values , customs , beliefs that define or characterize a certain group of people. 

The Ova Herero people have a custom named 'okuruuo' . This is a custom whereby they believe that their ancestors are always there for guidance and protection in all aspects they find themselves.  This is a religious worship that only ceremonial chief priests can invoke during rituals in times of disasters , famine , diseases, death, wedding ceremonies, welcoming a new bride , name giving ceremonies and circumcision-preparation rituals . 

According to a traditional celebrant Dr.  Rirauko described the  the  holy fire as 'omuriro omurangere' ,  which is translated as sacred fire . Holy fire ceremonies involves the use of ash  or water to help cast bad luck or evil spirits and bring about prosperity and good luck. The rising of smoke of the holy fire symbolizes a link between them and their ancestors.  The holy fire needs to burn at sunrise and sunset . 

All in all culture and traditions help us find our origin . Therefore maintaining one's culture ,value and traditions is beyond price. We are Africans and we should not be traumatized by the fact we we colonized , but rather embrace how combating our ancestors fought.  We are Africans  taught to be united and to work hard therefore as an African child  I am fond of my culture and tradition. 

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