Niël Terblanché
The Bondelswarts Heritage Foundation is preparing to host a historical cultural event at the Warmbad Heritage site, embracing the theme “Promoting Unity, Tourism, and Culture for Development” on World Tourism Day on 27 September.
This global day of recognition presents an opportunity to explore the transformative power of tourism, especially in rural communities like Warmbad, situated in the //Kharas region.
Mathew Veldskoen, the spokesperson for the Bondelswarts Heritage Foundation, stated that tourism has the potential to be a force for positive change in rural areas across the world.
He stressed that the event in Warmbad will not only celebrate the significance of tourism but also promote the rich cultural heritage and unity of the Bondelswarts people.
“We kindly invite the nation at large to take part in this important event,” said Veldskoen.
He added that the Warmbad gathering would serve as a platform to discuss how to maximize local tourism potential and create inclusive opportunities for development.
“This day is an opportunity to honour our cultural and historical heritage and connect people with their families and backgrounds,” Veldskoen added.
A key highlight of the event will be the guided tour of Warmbad’s historical sites, which include the hot springs and the traditional museum.
He said that visitors will also have the chance to sample local cuisine, such as rooster brood and braaivleis, showcasing the region’s culinary traditions.
“These tours and gastronomic experiences are expected to not only attract visitors but also boost local business and employment, highlighting the vital role domestic tourism plays in economic development,” he said.
In line with this year’s global theme of “Tourism and Peace,” the Bondelswarts Heritage Foundation aims to reflect on how tourism can create unity and drive both social and economic development.
According to Veldskoen, the cultural performances, particularly the singing and dancing by the Grunau Geduld Primary School learners, are expected to be one of the day’s most memorable moments.
“This school is the only one in the //Kharas region to offer Nama as a medium of instruction, thereby preserving a significant aspect of local cultural heritage,” he said.
Cultural festivals such as the one in Warmbad are seen as vital to promoting peace and unity, helping to bring diverse communities together.
These gatherings have the potential to drive political, social, and economic growth, as they help strengthen relationships and promote understanding among different groups.
“For the Bondelswarts tribe, this event is an essential step towards preserving and promoting their cultural identity while seeking opportunities for development through tourism,” he said.
According to Veldskoen, the event in Warmbad also serves as a reminder of the unique role rural communities play in the broader tourism landscape.
Veldskoen recited the words of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, who recently said: “The vision of ‘Best Tourism Villages’ is to make tourism a positive force for transformation, rural development, and community well-being. We aim to ensure that no village is left behind.”
With this vision in mind, Warmbad’s World Tourism Day celebrations are set to showcase the cultural richness of Namibia’s rural communities while promoting tourism as a driver for unity, peace, and sustainable development.
Veldskoen said the Bondelswarts Heritage Foundation hopes that this event will inspire local and international visitors to see rural tourism as a force for good, not only for economic gain but for the betterment of society as a whole.
“The Christian Royal House, led by His Majesty Nathaniel Christian, Chief Designated of the Bondelswarts Traditional Authority, and a host of other leaders, including members of the Warmbad community and students from Grunau Geduld Primary School, will take part in the festivities,” he said.
He added that the event is expected to feature a keynote address by a prominent figure, with speculation that President Nangolo Mbumba, may grace the occasion with his presence.
