Okahandja: The Heart of Namibia's Heritage

• HelloTjike
  [chee-keh]
• GoodbyeKala po
  [kah-lah poh]
• YesEe
  [eh]
• NoAa
  [ah]
• Please/You're welcomeKaande
  [kah-ahn-deh]
• Thank youTatene
  [tah-teh-neh]
• Excuse me/SorryTatele
  [tah-teh-leh]
• How are you?Ondjano
  [on-jah-noh]
• Fine. And you?Ondjano. Iiye
  [on-jah-noh eeh-yeh]
• Do you speak English?Oyandele po Englitha?
  [oh-yahn-deh-leh poh eng-lee-tah]
• I don't understandAa ndele
  [ah n-deh-leh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdapandula nde menu, kaande
  [n-dah-pahn-doo-lah n-deh meh-noo, kah-ahn-deh]
• I don't eat meatAa ote ondjave
  [ah oh-teh on-jah-veh]
• Cheers!Oha
  [oh-hah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNdapandula nde kana, kaande
  [n-dah-pahn-doo-lah n-deh kah-nah, kah-ahn-deh]

• Help!Ota
  [oh-tah]
• Go away!Ha nawa!
  [hah nah-wah]
• Call the Police!Onane o mpandu!
  [oh-nah-neh oh m-pahn-doo]
• Call a doctor!Onane o dhokota!
  [oh-nah-neh oh doh-koh-tah]
• I'm lostAa owa
  [ah oh-wah]
• I'm illAa ondjave
  [ah on-jah-veh]

• I'd like to buy...Ndapandula nde hala...
  [n-dah-pahn-doo-lah n-deh hah-lah...]
• I'm just lookingNande tatele
  [nahn-deh tah-teh-leh]
• How much is it?Ongi na?
  [on-gee nah]
• That's too expensiveOngi na shi hala
  [on-gee nah shee hah-lah]
• Can you lower the price?Ongi na tatele shi hala?
  [on-gee nah tah-teh-leh shee hah-lah]

• What time is it?Ondjila onene?
  [on-jee-lah oh-neh-neh]
• It's one o'clockOndjila onene
  [on-jee-lah oh-neh-neh]
• Half past (10)Ondjila omweya
  [on-jee-lah oh-mweh-yah]
• MorningOlukuro
  [oh-loo-koo-roh]
• AfternoonOndjawe
  [on-jah-weh]
• EveningOndjatu
  [on-jah-too]
• YesterdayOmanene
  [oh-mah-neh-neh]
• TodayOnene
  [oh-neh-neh]
• TomorrowOndje
  [on-jeh]
• 1Omweya
  [oh-mweh-yah]
• 2Ondi
  [on-dee]
• 3Ongatu
  [on-gah-too]
• 4Ondjove
  [on-joh-veh]
• 5Ongombe
  [on-gohm-beh]
• 6Ondjoma
  [on-joh-mah]
• 7Ondjupa
  [on-joo-pah]
• 8Ondjupa tatu
  [on-joo-pah tah-too]
• 9Ondjupa ngatu
  [on-joo-pah ngah-too]
• 10Ondjupa omweya
  [on-joo-pah oh-mweh-yah]

• Where's a/the...?Omo o...
  [oh-moh oh...]
• What's the address?Omo oshipokati?
  [oh-moh oh-she-poh-kah-tee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ondjele po (pamap)?
  [on-jeh-leh poh (pah-map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Omo omweya opo?
  [oh-moh oh-mweh-yah oh-poh]
• A ticket (to ....)Ondjele omweya (va ....)
  [on-jeh-leh oh-mweh-yah (vah)]

Okahandja, often referred to as the 'Garden Town of Namibia,' was formally established in 1894. The town's name is derived from the Otjiherero words 'okaha' (small) and 'ndja' (wide), referencing the wide floodplains of the Swakop River in the area. It became an essential settlement for the Herero people and later a significant administrative center during the German colonial period.

One of the most significant events in Okahandja's history is the Herero and Nama Rebellion against German colonial rule from 1904 to 1908. The conflict began in Okahandja on January 12, 1904, when the Herero people, led by Chief Samuel Maharero, launched an attack against the Germans. This rebellion was a crucial moment in the fight against colonial oppression, although it unfortunately led to tragic consequences for the Herero and Nama communities.

Chief Hosea Kutako is one of the most revered figures in Namibian history, and his legacy is closely tied to Okahandja. Born in 1870, Kutako was a prominent leader of the Herero people and played a crucial role in their resistance against German colonial forces. After the rebellion, he continued to fight for his people's land rights and was a significant figure in Namibia's struggle for independence. Today, his grave in Okahandja is a national monument and a site of pilgrimage.

Red Flag Day is a significant cultural event in Okahandja, celebrated annually on the last weekend of August. This event commemorates the Herero people's history and their leaders, particularly Chief Samuel Maharero. During the celebration, descendants of the Herero people gather to honor their ancestors with traditional rituals, dances, and speeches. It is a vibrant display of Herero heritage and a reminder of the community's resilience and unity.

Okahandja played a notable role in Namibia's journey to independence. The town was a center for political activism during the apartheid era, with many local leaders actively participating in the liberation movement. The presence of significant historical figures, such as Chief Hosea Kutako, and the town's strategic location contributed to its importance in the fight against South African rule. Okahandja's legacy in the struggle for freedom is a point of pride for its residents.

Today, Okahandja is a town that beautifully blends its rich cultural heritage with modernity. The town is known for its vibrant markets, particularly the Okahandja Craft Market, where visitors can find handmade crafts and artifacts reflecting Namibia's diverse cultures. The town's historical sites, such as the graves of Herero leaders and the old German fort, offer a glimpse into its storied past. Okahandja remains a living testament to Namibia's history and cultural diversity.

Okahandja is located approximately 70 kilometers north of Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. The easiest way to reach Okahandja is by road. You can rent a car from Windhoek and drive along the B1 highway, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, several shuttle services operate between Windhoek and Okahandja. For those preferring public transport, there are regular bus services that connect the two cities.

Once in Okahandja, you can explore the town on foot as many attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. It's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Car rentals are also an option for those looking to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. Public buses and minibuses (kombis) operate within the town and to nearby regions.

The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is interchangeable with the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Okahandja. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are available in the town for cash withdrawals.

Okahandja is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Be cautious with your belongings in crowded places such as markets. While Okahandja does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance or 2032276 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Okahandja. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly and comfortably, considering the hot climate. Avoid wearing very revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient and courteous when using public transport. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a friendly greeting in the local language ('Goeie dag' in Afrikaans) are appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Okahandja like a local, visit the local markets such as the Okahandja Mbangura Woodcarvers Market, where you can buy handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Von Bach Dam for a relaxing day by the water or the historical Okahandja Cemetery where prominent Namibian figures are buried.