Ozongombe mOmbazu ya Kaoko/ Cattle Culture of the Kaoko
Jekura U. Kavari, Ngungaa G. Hangara and Ephraim P.K. Tutjavi
ISBN 9789991642536
University of Namibia Press 2020
Ozongombe mOmbazu ya Kaoko/Cattle Culture of the Kaoko Ovaherero honours indigenous Sanga/Nguni cattle and their cultural and agricultural significance to the Ovaherero. The book introduces Otjiherero vernacular names for a wide variety of hide colours and patterns, horn shapes and ear notches in cattle, illustrated with over 300 colour photographs and drawings which give it the practical value of a bilingual field guide.
In depth information on the role of cattle in Ovaherero history and society, way of life, rites of passage, omens, taboos, worship, battle, and techniques of husbandry will interest students Sof agriculture, veterinary science and anthropology. The book also documents cultural concepts and practices inaccessible to the layperson and many urbanized Ovaherero, but which are still current among cattle-keepers in the isolated region of Kaoko. This timely record preserves not only cultural information but language terms which otherwise could be lost within the coming generation. Even a brief glance through its pages will serve to show the wonderful richness of Ovaherero cattle culture. Young people are concerned to preserve cultural information. They consult me before they purchase cattle to make sure they do not transgress the taboos for their patriclan. Jarimbovandu Alexander Kaputu, authority on Ovaherero tradition and culture.
Ngungaa Hangara, with a PhD in sustainable agriculture from the University of the Free State, RSA, grew up in Epukiro, Namibia. He has a keen interest in the preservation of indigenous cattle breeds.
Jekura U. Kavari, born in Kaoko, holds a PhD from the University of London. He has taught Otjiherero language and literature at the University of Namibia for more than 20 years.
Ephraim P.K. Tutjavi from Omao in Kaokoland, holds a Bachelor degree in Strategic Marketing from the University of Namibia and is interested in documenting Ovaherero culture.
