Oshakati: The Vibrant Heart of Northern Namibia

• HelloOshili
  [oh-shee-lee]
• GoodbyeKwafa
  [kwa-fa]
• YesEhe
  [eh-heh]
• NoNawa
  [na-wa]
• Please/You're welcomeOndjila
  [on-gee-la]
• Thank youNawa
  [na-wa]
• Excuse me/SorryTate
  [ta-teh]
• How are you?Ondjani?
  [on-ya-nee]
• Fine. And you?Nawa. Ongi?
  [na-wa. on-ghee]
• Do you speak English?Owa taya Engela?
  [oh-wa ta-ya en-ge-la]
• I don't understandOngi taya
  [on-ghee ta-ya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdahala moshilongo, tate
  [nda-ha-la mo-shee-long-go, ta-teh]
• I don't eat meatOngi taya ombidi
  [on-ghee ta-ya om-bee-dee]
• Cheers!Omakwafa!
  [oh-ma-kwa-fa]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNdahala oshilongo, tate
  [nda-ha-la oh-shee-long-go, ta-teh]

• Help!Onguta!
  [on-goo-ta]
• Go away!Uya!
  [oo-ya]
• Call the Police!Oshinda omakwangula!
  [o-sheen-da oh-ma-kwan-gu-la]
• Call a doctor!Oshinda omadokotela!
  [o-sheen-da oh-ma-do-ko-te-la]
• I'm lostOndjila oshi kala
  [on-gee-la oh-shee ka-la]
• I'm illOndjila oshona
  [on-gee-la oh-sho-na]

• I'd like to buy...Ndahala oshilongo...
  [nda-ha-la oh-shee-long-go]
• I'm just lookingOngi taya
  [on-ghee ta-ya]
• How much is it?Owa moni?
  [oh-wa mo-nee]
• That's too expensiveOmbushe ongashi
  [om-boo-she on-ga-shee]
• Can you lower the price?Ondjila shima omayala?
  [on-gee-la shee-ma o-ma-ya-la]

• What time is it?Owa shi ta?
  [oh-wa shee ta]
• It's one o'clockOshilongo ya 1
  [oh-shee-long-go ya one]
• Half past (10)Oshilongo sha pondo
  [oh-shee-long-go sha pon-do]
• MorningOndili
  [on-dee-lee]
• AfternoonOndili nokolwa
  [on-dee-lee no-kol-wa]
• EveningOndili nolongo
  [on-dee-lee no-long-go]
• YesterdayOshilongo sha mono
  [oh-shee-long-go sha mo-no]
• TodayOshilongo sha nyi
  [oh-shee-long-go sha nyi]
• TomorrowOshilongo sha nawa
  [oh-shee-long-go sha na-wa]
• 1One
  [one]
• 2Two
  [two]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Tati...?
  [ta-tee]
• What's the address?Owa tate aha?
  [oh-wa ta-te a-ha]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ondjila uya tate (o map)
  [on-gee-la oo-ya ta-te (oh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Tati omomwengu (bus)?
  [ta-tee oh-mom-wen-gu (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Nawa (to ....)
  [na-wa (to ....)]

The area now known as Oshakati has been inhabited for centuries by the Ovambo people, specifically the Uukwambi tribe. It served as a central point for trade and agriculture, benefiting from its fertile lands and strategic location.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Namibia fell under German colonial rule. Although Oshakati was not a major focus of German colonial activities, the influence of German administrative policies and infrastructure developments can still be felt in the region.

Following World War I, Namibia came under South African administration. Oshakati became a focal point during the South African occupation, particularly during the South African Border War (1966-1989). The town served as a base for military operations, and the remnants of this era are still visible in various parts of the town.

Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990, and Oshakati has since grown rapidly. The town has become one of the largest and most important economic centers in northern Namibia, with significant investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

Oshakati is a melting pot of various Ovambo cultures. Traditional music, dance, and festivals such as the Oshakati Totem Expo highlight the town's rich cultural heritage. The expo is an annual event that celebrates the history and traditions of the local tribes.

Today, Oshakati is a bustling urban center with a blend of modernity and tradition. The town's markets, like the Oshakati Open Market, offer a glimpse into daily life and local craftsmanship. Its role as a commercial hub continues to attract visitors and investors alike.

Oshakati is located in the Oshana Region of northern Namibia. The nearest major airport is Ondangwa Airport, approximately 30 kilometers away. There are regular flights from Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, to Ondangwa. From Ondangwa, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to Oshakati. Alternatively, if you are driving, Oshakati is accessible via the B1 highway from Windhoek, a journey that takes approximately 7 hours by car.

Within Oshakati, transportation options include taxis, which are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. While there is no formal public bus system, shared taxis and minibuses (known as combis) are a common mode of transport for locals and are a budget-friendly option for getting around. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, car rental services are available in Oshakati and Ondangwa.

The official currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, supermarkets, and larger restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and local markets. ATMs are widely available in Oshakati, so withdrawing cash is generally convenient.

Oshakati is relatively safe for tourists, but like any destination, it is important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly-lit or unfamiliar areas. Some neighborhoods, such as Evululuko and Uupindi, have higher crime rates, so exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables publicly.

In case of an emergency, dial 10111 for police, 211111 for medical emergencies, and 211111 for fire services. Oshakati has a district hospital that provides medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting a church or any religious site, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous and greet the driver and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink in shared taxis or minibuses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It is common to ask about someone's well-being before starting a conversation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and beverages. Oshakati is known for its traditional dishes, so be open to experiencing new flavors. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Oshakati like a local, visit the open-air markets such as the Oshakati Open Market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Engage with the locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share their culture and traditions. Participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the vibrant community life. Hiring a local guide can also enhance your experience by providing deeper insights into the area's history and culture.