These are men’s’ weapons used to protect themselves, their families and animals and also for hunting wild animals and birds. In Oshiwambo culture, a man is not supposed to walk empty handed, he should have his bow and arrows or a stick (Odibo).
Baskets (Oimbale)
Used for various purposes such as carrying goods when visiting, eating & decoration, Baskets are the mostly used utensils at the Northern part of Namibia. They are made specifically for household use and for income generating as they can be sold commercially.
Beer Goblets (Omaholo)
Omaholo are traditional goblets used to serve traditional beer (Omalodu) and Marula drink (Omaongo). They can be made from different trees such as: Ombo, Omughete and Omupopo. They are then decorated with different artist drawings.
Odjove
Marula oil (Odjove) is pure natural oil from Marula kernels. The oil is commonly used as a delicacy in the Northern part of Namibia and has been honoured and treated as a symbol of respect for the guests. It is scientifically proven that Marula oil has vitamins and is very good for the eyes.
Oshigali
Mashed black eyed peas is commonly served during house warming parties or whenever necessary. The common practise is that marula cooking oil is added before it is served.
Crushed Bird Plums (Oshihendedemba)
Crushed bird plums (Oshihendedemba) is usually prepared and served as a snack or lunch during summer. According to the elders, Oshihendedemba has saved families from severe droughts in the olden days.
Dried Spinach (Omavanda)
Dried spinach (Omavanda) are formed in a hand-like shape. They are prepared as a sauce and mostly served with porridge. It is believed in Oshiwambo traditional that a home is not a home enough if there is no dried spinach (Omavanda).
Soup (Omwai)
Different kernels from different fruits such as Marula fruits and Omaghete are used to make tasty soup/ gravy. They are first roasted for aroma then crushed in the mortar. Once well crushed they can then be added to the pot to make a sauce.
Omalodu
This beverage tastes almost the same as Oshikundu, however, the preparation differs. Omalodu beverage is mostly prepared with sorghum flour or Mahangu flour. It is important to note that these flours are prepared differently and not as flour for porridge. Omalodu is mostly prepared for special occasions and for honoured guests.
Omaongo / Marula Drink
Marula drink is produced by squeezing the juice out of the Marula fruits. The juice is then fermented for few days (depending on individual trees’ taste). Thereafter the drink is properly cleaned and prepared for drinking.