The Himba people of Namibia have long attracted tourists with their appearance and traditions. They are known as the “red” people because they cover their upper bodies with a mix of ochre powder and animal fat.
They are one of the last tribes that continue to live by their old traditions, even with modern influences.
They live as their ancestors did, choosing to stay in small communities in remote areas of southern Angola and northern Namibia, with little contact with modern society. They live a semi-nomadic lifestyle, building their homes with walls coated in mud and dung, using a framework of sapling branches.
Each morning, family members use smoke to cleanse their bodies, which opens their pores so they can use flat sticks to scrape off dirt. After this, they reapply the otjize mixture made from animal fat and ochre powder to complete their morning hygiene routine. The Himba also have several cultural dances used in their ceremonies.
Ondjongo and Otjiunda are traditional Himba dances in Namibia. Ondjongo is performed by both men and women, while Otjiunda is mainly performed by women. Both dances involve clapping, stomping, and detailed footwork and are performed during celebrations, weddings, and other important events.
Ondjongo Dance is done by both Himba men and women. It involves clapping, stomping, and fast foot movements. Dancers stand in a semicircle and join together, creating a joyful song and dance. It is usually performed at weddings, funerals, and community celebrations.
Otjiunda Dance is mainly performed by Himba women. They stamp their feet, clap, and chant while one woman dances in the center of the circle. The dancers cover their bodies with a mix of red ochre, butterfat, and herbs.
Women often wear traditional hairstyles and headdresses, and married women may wear large conch shells called ohumba, which are highly valued.