If you’re interested in unique cultures and African desert tribes, let me introduce you to the Himba people of Namibia. This fascinating group is often referred to as the "Red People" due to the distinctive red ochre body paint they apply to their skin each day. In addition to exploring how the Himba tribe maintains its cultural identity in the harsh desert environment, this blog post offers parents and children some interesting facts about the tribe.
its
Let’s take a closer look at this amazing desert tribe and what makes them so unique.
What Causes Them to Be Red?
The Himba people are semi-nomadic and primarily reside in the Kaokoland region of northwest Namibia. The Himba speak Otjihimba, a dialect of the Herero language.
Red ochre, a naturally occurring red stone, and butterfat are combined to create a red paste that they apply to their skin and hair. This paste is called otjize. It protects their skin from the hot desert sun and repels bugs. But it goes beyond that; it's a part of their identity and beauty. Different hairstyles and decorations are used by women and girls to reflect their age and stage of life.
A Himba girl with hair styled to veil her face. Photo by Yves Picq
How Do the Himba Live?
As herders, the Himba look after animals like goats and cows. They value their animals greatly for wealth and traditions as well as for food. They reside in round villages in little huts constructed out of sticks, mud, and manure. They live a simple yet meaningful life.
They hardly ever use electricity or phones or other modern conveniences. Rather, they remain true to their heritage and emulate their forefathers. While women prepare meals, cook, and gather herbs, men and boys tend to the animals. Before getting married, both boys and girls undergo unique rites of passage, such as circumcision and other rituals that signify their transition into adulthood.
Himba Village—Photo by Hans Hillewaert
What Do They Wear?
Animal skins are used to make Himba clothing, which is then adorned with metal, beads, and shells. Women's hair is long, thick, and styled in amazing braids, all covered in red paste, and they also wear skirts and numerous necklaces and bracelets. Men also braid their hair in styles that show if they’re married or not.
Cultural Identity and Traditions
The Himba have a unique social system called bilateral descent, meaning people belong to both their mother’s and father’s clans. Due to their extensive family support system, they can survive in the desert. Traditionally, men have two wives on average, and parents arrange marriages. Only after giving birth to their first child do women achieve full adult status.
Spiritual life is also important. Every village has a sacred fire that is kept burning as part of the Himba's ceremonies to honour their ancestors. Elders oversee the community and conduct these rites, transmitting wisdom from one generation to the next.
You should also read these posts if you are interested in learning more about other tribes and cultures:
- The Benin Kingdom
- Short history of the Mali Empire
- Fulani Nomads
- The Samburu Warriors of Kenya
- Hidden mystery of the Mbundu people
- Secrets of the Wolof people
- The Hadzabe tribe
Why Should Kids Learn About the Himba?
They teach us about pride in tradition: the Himba celebrate their uniqueness and don’t try to look like anyone else.
They show us another way to live: a happy, family-oriented, and culturally rich life can exist without screens and shopping centres.
Remind us of Africa’s rich variety: Africa is a continent with many diverse stories.
The Himba culture provides an excellent model for teaching African traditions because it demonstrates how people can coexist peacefully with the environment while maintaining their sense of self. Children and adults worldwide can learn important lessons from their way of life, which instills respect for family, the environment, and history.
If you could visit the Himba village, what would you want to ask or learn about their way of life? Tell us in the comments!
