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Let Kavango Remain Kavango, Unchanged, Undiluted

The Kavango regions are more than just geographical locations.

They are a cultural and historical treasure, rooted in the identity of the Kavango people.

Renowned for a rich diversity of traditions, languages and customs, The Kavango regions stand as testament to the vibrant heritage of the inhabitants. However, an unsettling trend is emerging: the increasing tendency to refer to the regions as ‘Okavango’.

This seemingly minor alteration has significant implications for the cultural authenticity and dignity of the people who call the regions home.

Names are not just words; they carry profound meaning and represent the essence of a place and its people. The name ‘Kavango’ is deeply embedded in the area’s identity, reflecting its history, culture and the resilience of its communities. Altering this name to ‘Okavango’ risks diluting its authenticity and disconnecting the regions from their true roots. Such a change undermines the historical significance of the name and misrepresents the cultural heritage of the Kavango people.

The shift to ‘Okavango’ could lead to the erosion of the Kavango people’s identity. Names hold stories, and the name ‘Kavango’ tells the story of a proud, vibrant community that has thrived for generations. Changing it erases these stories, diminishing the area’s unique cultural footprint.

Furthermore, this trend could result in confusion between Namibia’s Kavango regions and Botswana’s Okavango Delta. While the two regions are geographically distinct, using similar names risks overshadowing the individuality of the Kavango regions.

Such a shift could lead to misrepresentation in tourism, development projects, and even international recognition, robbing the Kavango regions of their rightful place on the map.

As Namibians, it is our collective responsibility to respect and preserve the authenticity of our regional names. The attempt to modernise or adapt names without understanding their significance is not progress, but a step towards losing our heritage.

We urge all Namibians to familiarise themselves with the correct name: Kavango.

The name “Kavango” is more than a label – it is an identity. Let us celebrate it, protect it and ensure that it remains a beacon of our shared heritage. Together, we can uphold the values of respect, authenticity and unity that define Namibia.
Let Kavango remain Kavango – unchanged, undiluted, and proudly Namibian.
Simon Seke

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