Herero

Legend has it that the Herero once left 'a country of many mountains'. They came to a leadwood tree where the two leaders, Kathu, and his brother Nangombe decided to part ways. Kathu trekked north, while Nangombe stayed in Namibia to establish the Herero nation. The word Herero may be derived from okuhera, meaning 'to throw an assegai'. Indeed they were a fearless and warlike nation, taking on the might of the German empire in 1904.

The Herero are unique among southern Africa's indigenous people to recognize their descent from both the mother's and father's families. Residence, religion and authority are taken from the father's line, while the economy and inheritance of wealth is passed on via the mother's clan.

The Herero believe in a Supreme Being, called Omukuru, the Great One, or Njambi Karunga. Like the Himba they also have a holy, ritual fire which symbolizes life, prosperity and fertility to them. However, the majority have been converted to Christianity, although the Herero church, the Oruuano, combines Christian dogma with ancestor worship and magical practices.

Traditionally, they are nomadic pastoralists. There is no private ownership of cattle, since they belong to the lineage of the mother's tribe. An heir is expected to share his inheritance with his brother's and the sons of his mother's younger sisters. He must also now take care of the wives and children of the deceased. However, like so much else, this system is also changing and today more children inherit cattle from their dead father.

Lodges and Camps in Namibia: Beach Lodge - Casa Piccolo - Mahangu Safari Lodge - Mazambala - Oase Guest House - Phantom Farmhouse - The Desert Homestead

Botswana Destinations: Chobe National Park

Zimbabwe Destinations: Victoria Falls

Tribes of Namibia: Herero - Himba - Kavango - Ovambo - San - Topnaars