Unity

The history of love in Namibia is no different from the rest of the world. Despite the end of legalised discrimination, people are still uncomfortable with the idea of interracial relationships.

Choice of partners should need no validation from the outside, says photographer Opaluwa Onucheyo.

Onucheyo offers a refined outlook on contemporary society in Namibia post-independence. Through studio portraiture, he presents a two-part series that begs the public to re-evaluate the value systems governing modern society.

Unity is a recurring theme presented through the angle of interracial relationships in Namibia and a face painted to represent the cries for a better nation.

“This shoot was inspired by current events. A young and vibrant nation with much potential yet is a victim of the typical African narrative of development,” says Onucheyo when describing the portrait of model Varaakuani Hambira, in which her tears are painted as the Namibian flag. A country she cannot help but cry over. Powerful motifs of patriotism, disillusionment and pride are expressed.

In the second part of his series, the photographer captures the delightful presence of love and adoration between partners. The theme of yin and yang is presented through black and white backgrounds, carefully imploring the motif of oneness.

In an interview with couple Mel and Martin Amushendje regarding some of the challenges they face in their interracial union, they describe some of their experiences and thoughts on race and classism.

“I remember going to a predominantly Afrikaans restaurant and them being very nice to me until Martin walked in and they realised he was my husband. There was an eerie silence that fell over the room,” says Mel.

To many people, the reality of interracial relationships is one that is foreshadowed to fail epically. It is construed as a blatant denial of the culture that raised you. Worries over disputes stemming from cultural differences hover and issues of class and education also play a role.

“The playing field has levelled, there are more emancipated women making their own money regardless of race and some women are making more,” says Martin. Mel describes how she would drive around in her mother’s car and Martin would sit in the passenger seat unbothered – however, that did not stop people from staring. Globalisation and the internet have connected a generation of millennials. Interests are shared on social media and relationships are built regardless of background and race.

“It is sad that there are people who claim to find their ideal match and yet find themselves constricted to their race. With the aid of my photography, I aim to liberate us from these fears and recognise that the world is changing and becoming more accepting. Love is blind despite the world’s attempt to give it eyes,” concludes Onucheyo.

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