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Item Livelihood challenges amongst the !Xun San in the Okongo community forest and conservancy(University of Namibia, 2025) Iyambo, Erasmus; Tawodzera, G.The !Xun San are one of the most marginalised people in the Okongo Community Forest and Conservancy. Traditionally, their economic system largely centred on hunting and gathering. The arrival of the bantu-speaking people in the San’s traditional hunting grounds, however, changed their economic system and livelihoods as the newcomers were primarily agro-pastoralists. For survival, the San were compelled to adopt a new economic system based on farming and trading – economic activities which they were not familiar with. The disruption of the San’s economic systems negatively impacted on their livelihoods, driving most of them into poverty and destitution. How the !Xun San have been affected, the challenges they face and their survival strategies have not been adequately researched. Thus, this study sought to assess the livelihood challenges amongst the !Xun San in the Okongo Community Forest and Conservancy, Ohangwena region. The study adopted a qualitative approach consisting of face-face in-depth interviews carried out with !Xun San households and other key-informants in the area. The study findings indicated that the majority of the !Xun San in the conservancy were experiencing acute levels of poverty, suffered high levels of unemployment and lived in deplorable housing conditions. Their poverty emanated from the fact that most did not own land and therefore could not productively produce for themselves. In addition, the majority did not possess productive assets to enhance their livelihoods. Those that could access land had no skills nor financial capacity to participate fully in farming or other economic activities such as trading. Being highly marginalised and vulnerable to poverty, the !Xun San in the conservancy were resorting to participating in piecework, being engaged by the Owambo to do various chores in return for money. This was, however, not yielding much returns economically. A few others were engaging in brewing traditional beer to supplement their income. Overall, the majority of the !Xun San were facing multiple material deprivations. The study concluded that the material and socio-economic conditions of the San were, in comparison to other population groups, precarious and require urgent attention. The study recommends that government and non-governmental organizations take a pro-active approach and put in place programmes to address the economic and material challenges faced by the !Xun San.Item Assessing savanna shrub roots deployment using radiogenic strontium isotopes in the North-Eastern Kalahari, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Iipinge, Helalia N.; Nakanyala, J.The belowground interaction between trees and grasses in the savanna biome and mechanisms of moisture and nutrient uptake are poorly understood due to methodological challenges. To fill this gap, this study tested the robustness of the radiogenic strontium isotope method to study plant roots. The study was carried out at a landscape level, in Northeastern, Namibia. Plant leaves of four randomly selected shrubs and their 16 nearest neighborhood shrubs were collected within a 20 m x 20 m plot for isotopic analysis. This was done to assess the method’s performance. The study characterised the belowground structure and roots deployment of 17 of the 20 shrubs, sampled for isotopic analysis. It also assessed soil isotope, soil physicochemical properties, and the distribution of root biomass and density. Soil isotopes and soil physicochemical properties were analysed in the laboratory from 50 samples taken from five soil cores (10 cm interval, down to 1 m depth). A total of 450 soil samples were taken from 45 soil cores, spaced 2.5 m in 5 transects to determine root density and biomass. Data analysis was done in R.4.2.1. Results showed a relatively poor soil nutrient at the study site, but a high concentration of nutrients was recorded in the first 50 cm soil profile, where 75% of the root biomass is invested. Comparable strontium ratios were recorded along the soil profile, which did not vary significantly with soil depth (p = 0.44). Results indicated that plants’ isotopic ratios are neither attributed to rooting depths, nor to plant species. This study concluded that the isotope method lacks precision to establish shrubs’ rooting depths for ecological studies. However, an overlap between sampled plants and soils’ Sr ratios was recorded at the site, which makes the results precise for studies with interest in geographical variations of isotopes such as archaeology.Item A study on the historical and contemporary significance of Omwele Gwoshipika among Aawambo communities(University of Namibia, 2024) Hangula, Ndamian N.; Akawa-Shikufa, MarthaOmwele Gwoshipika is (or was) one of the celebrated objects of Aawambo material culture of the 19th to 20th century, and an object of historical status in the social and political structure of Aawambo communities. Omwele Gwoshipika excelled as a tool for the king to exercise political and social authorities in Aawambo subjects. The aftermath of Germany's colonial administration over Namibia from 1884 to 1915 has resulted in some of the Aawambo material culture being taken away to Germany. Omwele Gwoshipika was among the items taken away from the source communities to Germany in 1909 and kept in the Berlin Ethnographic Museum. The removal of Omwele Gwoshipika by the Germans as an instrument of authority in the royal delegation of power left a void in hierarchical representation of the king in the Aawambo kingdoms. This study attempts to establish the significance of Omwele Gwoshipika among the Aawambo communities, their views on its restitution to Namibia and it is design structure. The data of the study were collected using a qualitative research method, which incorporated focus group and semi-structured interview with groups and individual participants. The study found out that Omwele Gwoshipika has a very great historical significance in the world of kings1 . There is mixed feelings among Aawambo regarding the contemporary importance of Omwele Gwoshipika. The study established the excitement and joy among the Aawambo regarding the restitution of Omwele Gwoshipika and that the ancient design of Omwele Gwoshipika can be reinstated. Moreover, the study established mixed feeling whereby some Aawambo communities felt that the restitution of Omwele Gwoshipika is not valuable because the traditional and spiritual ways that used to keep Omwele Gwoshipika have been compromised. The study concluded that for Omwele Gwoshipika to be successfully re- integrated in use in Aawambo community with its original cultural characters, there are certain behavioural changes that Aawambo youth need to favour such as discipline, orderliness and adhering to the accepted standards of Aawambo cultural behavioural norms for the re-integration of Omwele Gwoshipika to be installed successfully among Aawambo communities’.Item Contribution of civilians towards the liberation struggle in Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions, Namibia, 1966 - 1989.(University of Namibia, 2024) Tilenge, Cornelia Panduleinge; Gwasira, GoodmanThe main purpose of the research was to look at how civilians contributed to the liberation struggle of Namibia in the Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions from 1966 to 1989. This qualitative study delves into the intricate dynamics of civilian experiences during Namibia's liberation struggle in the Ohangwena and Oshikoto regions from 1966 to 1989. Utilizing structured interviews with 21 purposively and snowball- sampled participants, the research unveils multifaceted civilian contributions, notably the crucial sustenance provided to the People's Liberation Army of Namibia (PLAN) guerrillas. Despite facing challenges like curfews and violence-related laws, civilians exhibited resilience and adaptability, underscoring their unwavering commitment to the liberation cause. Challenges encompassed heightened insecurity, shortages, legal restrictions, and communication difficulties, revealing the complex realities faced by civilians. The factors influencing civilian participation varied, including spirituality, historical violence, conflicting theories of violence, material landscapes, constrained liberation agendas, and economic considerations. This study contributes significantly to the understanding of civilian agency in liberation movements, emphasizing the nuanced and complex dynamics shaping historical narratives. Four keywords: Namibia, Liberation Struggle, Civilian Contributions, Motivations. The study recommended the engagement of individuals actively involved in the liberation struggle to provide richer insights into personal experiences, motivations, and challenges. These narratives can complement existing literature and deepen the study. The study suggests expanding the exploration of the liberation struggle by incorporating diverse perspectives from various ethnic, gender, and age groups. This inclusive approach is essential for fostering a more representative understanding of the varied experiences of civilians. Additionally, the research recommends further delving into archival materials, official documents, and records from the Ohangwena and Oshikoto regions. This additional investigative effort aims to gain valuable insights into specific actions, policies, and events that transpired during the liberation struggle, enhancing the overall depth and comprehensiveness of the historical analysis.Item An assessment of the use of social media as a corporate communication tool by the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC)(University of Namibia, 2021) Penna, Master M.; Mwilima, Fred J.The study assesses the use of social media as a corporate communication tool by the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). The main objectives of this study were to assess the social media platforms used by NBC as communication tools to engage with their audience. The study examined the extent to which NBC has adopted these social media platforms. Another objective was to determine how these social media platforms were being used by the Corporation. The study further appraised the quality and effectiveness of engagement with the audience by NBC through these media platforms. The study applied a mixed method approach in collecting data with a key informant interview being conducted with the executive and senior management of the NBC. Participants in the study comprised of five (5) Executive managers who were decision-makers and twelve (12) senior managers whom the researcher believed to be implementers of the executive decisions. The study established that all respondents who took part in the study had active social media accounts thus had the knowledge of social media and how it operates. The findings of the study indicated that the NBC subscribes to social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube. It was further established in the study that NBC engaged its audience and stakeholders using these platforms with the purpose of communicating news and informing the public of upcoming programmes. Institutions such as the NBC are advised to initiate and enhance dialogue with their stakeholders on social media, create interesting and engaging contentItem An assessment of the perceptions of residents on the governance of relocations in Okalongo settlement in Northern Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Kapenambili, JohannaThe main aim of the study was to determine the different roles performed by those involved in the relocations carried out in the Okalongo Settlement. Additionally, it aimed to investigate the level of their involvement in the process and examine their expectations for the new arrangements. The researchers successfully collected and analyzed data by using a combination of methodologies. The study asked specific questions about the contributions made by stakeholders to the relocations and aimed to understand the various ways in which stakeholders participated in the relocation process within the Okalongo Settlement. Lastly, it sought to examine how well different stakeholders followed the established relocation procedures in Okalongo. A mixed-method approach was used to collect and analyze the data. The findings of the study showed that while some stakeholders fulfilled their assigned roles in the relocations, others did not fulfill their responsibilities adequately. Additionally, although a majority of stakeholders actively participated in the relocation process, some residents expressed dissatisfaction. The study also revealed that 62.5% of participants believed that stakeholders had adhered to the relocation procedures, while 53.5% agreed that stakeholders had followed these procedures. However, a significant percentage of 78.39% remained neutral about the adherence of stakeholders to the relocation procedures. Furthermore, a substantial 83.0% of respondents disagreed that communication with stakeholders was effectiveItem Print media information access and usage in Okalongo and Ongenga settlements in Namibia(University of Namibia, 2023) Martin, SimeonThis study examined the accessibility and usage of print media information by rural communities in Okalongo and Ongenga settlements, located in northern Namibia. The research objectives were to evaluate how accessible print media information is, identify the channels through which communities access print media information, explore how communities use the information obtained, and investigate the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing print media information. To achieve the objectives, the study used mixed methods, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods. Convenient and purposive sampling techniques were used to select 254 participants from the two settlements, with a 95% response rate. The data was collected using self-administered questionnaires, focus group discussions and interview guides for chief region officers, government officials and headmen. The findings showed that rural communities in Okalongo and Ongenga relied heavily on print media information, with newspapers, posters, books, leaflets and notes on notice boards being the most commonly used platforms. The study also identified government offices, shops, families and friends as the most accessed avenues for print media information. The challenges faced by rural communities in accessing print media information included inaccessibility, late delivery, unaffordability and language barriers. Based on the findings, the study recommends that the government of Namibia should improve its role in facilitating access to information to ensure that rural communities receive accurate and timely information. Future studies should expand the scope to cover all media platforms and larger populationsItem Frederick b. Philander: An exploration of his contribution to Namibian theatre (1979-2021)(University of Namibia, 2024) Nehemia, MelgisedekThe purpose of this study was to explore Frederick B. Philander's contribution to Namibian theatre from 1979 to 2021. The study was intended to fill a gap in Namibian theatre history. In-depth interviews were done with Frederick B. Philander and theatre practitioners familiar with Frederick B. Philander's theatre practices. This study utilised archival information and written documentation of his work. The outcomes of the study indicated that Frederick B. Philander made important contributions to Namibian theatre over the aforementioned years. Philander's contribution includes a legacy that continues on in the current generation of theatre practitioners to whom he provided acting and staging opportunities. Philander has made significant contributions to the promotion of theatre outside of Namibia's borders. Philander is a theatre practitioner who has written and performed various plays that have been published. Philander established several theatre groups such as Windhoek Theatre Association, Windhoek Players, Serpent Players and CAN, and also chaired Assitej-Namibia. Philander was the first ‘black’ Namibian playwright to have published his plays. He also broke the pillars of apartheid when he staged the first ‘non-white’ play in an ‘all-white’ theatre. He further staged a controversial play The Beauty Contest, in which Philander and co- star appeared naked on stage. The research further found the need to document the work of theatre practitioners who have been active in the Namibian theatre, such as Vickson Hangula, Laurinda Olivier- Sampson, Sandy Rudd, Senga Brockerhoff, and Tanya Terblanche and others. These practitioners have been active in Namibian theatre over the years by writing plays and staging productions. Therefore, they deserve to be documented. It should be noted that theatre is still ongoing in Namibia at the time of this research, therefore it needs to be documented constantlyItem Exploring time-travel in children’s literature: The case study of when you dance with the crocodile by Erna Muller and crusade in jeans by Thea Beckman(University of Namibia, 2024) Sikuvi, Rebecca N.This thesis provides a comparative analysis of the novels When you Dance with the Crocodile (2012) by Erna Muller and Crusade in Jeans (1973) by Thea Beckman. The two novels were purposefully selected because they primarily characterise children or young people as protagonists. Additionally, the novels were selected because of the recurring themes of historical time travel. The major objectives of the study were to analyse the presentation of historical time travel elements in the selected novels and to explore the different methods of time travel used in both novels. This was done through the theory of narratology and mythology. The study then employed a qualitative desktop analysis, and data was analysed using a thematic content analysis, which was systemised into different themes to ease the data analysis and presentation process. The study observed that although the themes in both novels are similar, each novel presents the themes in a unique manner. In Crusade in Jeans (1973), it was found that historical time travel embarked on by the protagonists was a result of a scientific experiment with the hope of providing results and answers to scientific questions pertaining to time travel beyond human comprehension. On the other hand, historical time travel in When you Dance with the Crocodile (2012), accidentally happens with the main characters not knowing they would be going back in time, but just playing a computer game, and this consequently provides an opportunity for a nuanced scientific discovery from video game experiments. Among the themes that emerged in the study are child endangerment, credulity in religion and tradition, and magic and heresy. Further research recommendations are to employ a rhetorical theory analysis to futuristic time travel in children’s literary narrativesItem The role of records centres in the digital environment: A case study of records centres in Windhoek(University of Namibia, 2024) Mulokoshi, Selma NangulaThe study investigated the role of records centres in the digital environment focusing on Windhoek records centres. The study was guided by the records life cycle, records continuum theory and records management standards. The philosophical foundation of this study was the interpretivist paradigm which applied a qualitative approach. The study adopted a multi-case study research design. The target population was 18 respondents, purposively collected from three commercial records centres, which were Document Warehouse, AGS Records Management and Phildou and six in-house records centres in Windhoek, which were University of Namibia, Namibia University of Science and Technology, NamPower, Ministry of Health and Social Services, Namcol and National Archives of Namibia. A census was applied, hence, all nine records centres in Windhoek were intended to take part in the study. However, only eight records centres granted permission for the study to be conducted. The data collection was conducted by means of face-to-face interviews comprising open-ended questions and then analysed using content analysis. The findings of the study indicate that the services offered by the records centres were storage and retrieval services of semi-current records. Furthermore, the study reveals that some of the services had not changed in the digital environment. However, there were new services such as hosting of e-records on the cloud, scanning and using the electronic document management system. The study could not conclusively determine if policies and guidelines were fully integrated into ICTs. The study discovered challenges faced by records centres, such as transitioning in terms of human and financial resource needs, digital obsolescence, and a lack of adequate equipment to meet the digitalisation of records. The study recommends that records centres should train staff members on electronic records management practices and create digital archival repositoriesItem Documenting the history and practices of animal skin tanning and leather conservation among the Ovahimba and Ovaherero communities in Kaoko, Kunene region, Namibia(University of Namibia, 2024) Nghishiko, Johanna N.This study delves into the traditional practices of animal skin tanning and leather conservation among the Ovaherero and Ovahimba communities, Bantu-speaking groups that settled in Namibia during the early 16th century. Spanning from the 19th to the 21st century, it aims to document the historical evolution of these practices within these communities. Skin and leather have held a profound significance in Ovaherero culture, serving purposes ranging from clothing to shelter and adornment. The study employed an ethnographic research methodology, and the findings reveals that these materials not only signify cultural identity but also reflect societal traditions, landscapes, and available resources. However, colonialism, formal education, Christianity, and climate change have exerted significant influences, leading to the alteration or abandonment of traditional practices such as leather-making. Despite these challenges, communities have persisted in sourcing skins from wildlife and domesticated animals, utilizing animal fat mixed with herbs and minerals for preservation. The study concludes that the enduring practice of skin tanning and leather conservation among these communities embodies resilience and facilitates intergenerational knowledge transfer. Through their daily activities, community members uphold leather as a tangible link to their heritage, preserving its intrinsic cultural value while navigating the complexities of modernityItem Migration securitization in SADC: Assessing its impact on the free movement of people and regional economic integration agenda(University of Namibia, 2024) Moyo, Sindiso V.This exploratory study looks at migration and securitization in SADC. More specifically, the study assesses the impact that migration and securitization have on the free movement of people and on regional economic integration agenda of SADC. The study uses the securitization theory espoused by Buzan and Wæver in order to assess the how the securitization of migration affects freedom of movement and regional integration within the SADC region. The theory argues that political issues are defined as security issues that need to be dealt with urgently when they have been labelled as ‘dangerous’, ‘threatening’ and ‘alarming’ by a securitising actor, that holds social and institutional power to move the issue beyond politics. Further the theory argues that security issues are not simply out in the air, rather they have to be articulated as problems by securitising actors. The study draws upon qualitative data like documentary analyses, books, journals and semi-structured interviews. The Study also sought to assess the impact of the securitization of Migration in SADC on the free movement of people and regional economic integration agenda. The study found that the impact of the securitization of migration, provides SADC governments with the ability to restrict entry of foreign nationals into their job markets, business sectors and social spaces. More-so the study also found that the migration securitization may hinder the ability of ordinary people who are not in big business from fully participating and being full beneficiaries of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The study further found that it has been witnessed that where circular migration or multiple migration is restricted, in Southern Africa, there is an impact on trade. The study also found that the overemphasis on formal channels of trade affects informal trade which is seen to be influential in the functioning of regional economies. Cross border traders are seen as key contributors to the overall economy of the region, henceforth the migration securitization continues to hinder productive integration of cross border trading, which further affects regional economic development. In relation to SADC developing a migration policy that is more human centric than state centric, the study found that, the lack of coherence between regional and national migration policies has created a huge gap between regional legislative II framework and national legislative framework. The study further pointed that, SADC needs to formulate and implement a regional migration policy framework, that is aligned to that of the African Union’s Protocol on Free Movement of Persons which is seen to be more human centred. Further the study pointed out that the formulation of the migration policy framework must crafted and implemented through wide consultations with civil society and local communities and lastly should protect the freedom of movement of migrants within and from host countries. More-so, the findings also found that there is a need for ensuring freedom of movement of all migrants including refugees and asylum seekers without fear of arrest, detention or deportation. In addition, the study also found that in creating a more human centric migration policy, SADC member states need to work together to ensure creation and protection of social security benefits of migrants and foreign nationals. In relation to how labour migration in SADC contributes to economic development of host nations; the study found that the South African mining industry has previously benefited economically from migrants Lesotho, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi. The study also found that in a state where, there is a fertile ground for economic migrants, labour migration will be key for economic development. More-over the study also finds that despite the securitised nature of migration people will continue to move. The study recommends that the region needs to implement a centralised border management and information system, that will allow for increased data sharing, increasing legal pathwaysItem Exploring mechanisms to improve female parliamentarians’ participation in decision-making: Case study of Namibian National Assembly(University of Namibia, 2024) Kaputu, TjaraThe study aimed to explore mechanisms to improve female parliamentarians’ participation in decision-making, propose way to assist female parliamentarians to effectively participate in substantive decision-making and explore measures that can facilitate women’s active role in participating in legislative processes. The study employed a qualitative research approach using a case study design. This research design provided a contextual, in-depth information on the why and how questions that could provide great insights and was useful for understanding mechanisms in place to assist female parliamentarians to effectively participate in substantive decision making. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data for the study. The data was analysed using thematic data method, which was accomplished by searching a data set for repeated patterns, analysing them, and reporting them using themes. The study findings revealed that there some mechanisms in place (such as: as framework laws, governmental programs, national action plans, and the establishment of gender equality committees) to improve female parliamentarians’ participation in decision making. However, despite these mechanisms, female parliamentarians continue to face obstacles when attempting to table, defend, and pass motions in parliament. The obstacles identified include lack of confidence, language barriers (low level of fluency in official language), lack of exposure to national and international debates, and party structures (how members are ranked in the party). The study therefore concluded that the system needs to ensure that female parliamentarians are on party lists. Female parliamentarians require a strong women's movement as well as collaboration between civil society organisations and political parties, to advocate for women. The study also suggests that female parliamentarians be exposed to exchange visits in order to learn from other female legislators. A critical recommendation is for female parliamentarians to avoid political affiliation as a ground rule for opposing female ideas or motions, and political party rules/agenda should not interfere with a country's national platform to solve national issuesItem The impact of remittances on the rural household poverty in Namibia: A case of Ohangwena constituency, Ohangwena region(University of Namibia, 2023) Kashimba, Emilia FlorianaMigration is a global concern that impacts the socio-economy of any country. Migration occurs at international and internal levels. It is known to put pressure on a country's resource allocation when proper planning has yet to be done; it may affect development. A large portion of migration involves internal migration from rural to urban areas for economic reasons. In some countries, migration is also known as a strategy to reduce poverty in rural areas through remittances. This thesis sought to investigate the impact of remittances on rural household poverty in Namibia, and a case study in the Ohangwena constituency, Ohangwena region, was conducted. The study's objectives were to identify the nature of remittances sent by migrants to the rural household, to explore the uses of remittances in the rural household, and to investigate the impact of the remittances on the rural household. The study used a qualitative approach to collect data. A sample of 20 rural households was selected using a snowball sampling procedure. Data was collected using an interview guide through key informants per rural household. The study revealed that many rural households receive cash, food, materials, goods, and equipment remittances. The study also found that remittances are used to improve the living standards of the rural household, as most participants have mentioned buying food for consumption in the household as one of the primary uses of remittances. Others were paying bills, agricultural purposes, improving housing structures, and many more. The findings have also revealed that remittances positively impact the rural household as they have enhanced many rural households after migration, such as improved employment rates, food security, income, health, and education, and the household's general well-being. One of the study recommendations is for development planners to mainstream migration in development plans to improve rural poverty and achieve rural developmentItem An investigation of land reallocation conflicts in local authorities in Namibia: A case study of Omuthiya town council(University of Namibia, 2023) Shiindi, Job DhimbulukwaThis study examined land reallocation challenges between landowners and the OTC to make recommendations for improving land reallocation process. This was accomplished by assessing how land is reallocated within the OTC and how it affects community members. Understanding land reallocation dispute is critical to ensure inclusivity of every Namibian and fair participation in land reallocation process. The study was conducted through a qualitative research design. Primary data was collected through interview guides. The interviews were administered to (8) staff members of the OTC, and fifteen (15) community members affected by land reallocation. The respondents were selected through purposive sampling, which is a non-probability sampling technique. Data was analysed using content analysis. The study found that, community members understand land reallocation process. The findings provide reasons to why land reallocation conflict exists between OTC and community members. The conflict is mainly because of inadequate compensation, unfair treatment of landowners by OTC employees, unclear land reallocation procedures and lack of cooperation and information sharing to residents whose land was earmarked for development. The study concludes that, land reallocation is very beneficial to OTC because of generated income that leads to urbanisation. The study recommends for revision of current compensation policy and guidelines to ensure fair compensation through a model. There is a need to capacitate implementing agencies, community members and compensation guidelines and policy. This means embarking on education and communication programmes to maximise effective communication between OTC and community membersItem Documenting a creative process: rust as means to create innovative textiles for fashion/art(University of Namibia, 2022) Claasen, ChakirraThis practice-based research follows and documents an individual creative process. Rust was used as a means to create innovative textiles which were used to create a collection of garments and accessories that challenges the dual identity of fashion as art. This research consists of a practical as well as a theoretical component aimed at producing a reference of the creative process for the fashion, textile and art industries in Namibia as there are limited resources and the fashion industry needs to be innovative as well as creative. This study’s creative process was compared to Wallas’ four stages of creativity that includes preparation, incubation, illumination and verification. Wallas’ theory was also compared to other existing theories on creativity. These theories were then compared to this studies documentation of the creative process in order to create a theory that can be applied by Namibian artists and designers from a Namibian perspective. The creative process was documented to highlight the challenges and practice that a designer follows in order to create new and authentic design outcomes. For the practical component, this study followed a creative process that involved textile manipulation and rust dyeing that formed part of a collection of garments and accessories that were exhibited in a gallery as fashion/art. The preparation and production of garments and the exhibition were documented through a series of extensive photographs that in turn formed the data that is discussed in the thesis with regards to the creative process. The research highlights the importance of following a creative process in order to create new and authentic Namibian design identities that have an impact locally as well as abroad even though each creative process can be unique to the individual.Item A study of Vakwangali traditional clothing for fashion creation in Namibia(University of Namibia, 2020) Caley, Maria A.The need to explore the Vakwangali traditional clothing as an inspiration for designing fashion clothing arose from acquired knowledge and understanding that intersections exist between traditional clothing and fashion design. It also began from observations that while such intersections seem to have resulted in the development of fashion clothing from traditional clothing among, for example, Ovaherero and Aawambo of Namibia, it is puzzling as to why the same have not occurred among Vakwangali of Kavango West region. Traditional clothing of Vakwangali has a rich history that is embedded with value and meaning. However, this rich cultural heritage is not reflected in their everyday wear. The main objective of this study was to explore various Vakwangali traditional clothing and styles over time; in order to explain the lack of transformation of Vakwangali cultural clothing from traditional clothing styles to fashion clothing. In addition this study aimed to suggest initiatives to transform Vakwangali traditional clothing into fashion through an exhibition fashion collection. Data was collected through interviews with key informants to gain in-depth knowledge regarding Vakwangali traditional clothing and its influence through a narrative style. Additional archival documents, regarding early establishment of mission work and schools, showed the influence of Christianity and colonial rule on Vakwangali traditional clothing including its transformation. Artefacts were also observed at the Maria Mwengere Museum in Rundu and Owela Museum in Windhoek to record details on craftsmanship of Vakwangali traditional clothing needed for fashion design. In addition, the online BAB Photography archive was studied to gain visual references to guide the designing process of the Vakwangali Fashion Collection. The study found that besides the various Vakwangali clothing, which included leather aprons for men and women, different hairstyles and ornaments were used to adorn the body. The study also found that there existed different styles between gender and social status. Generally, factors such as trade, Christianity and changing of livelihood contributed to the lack of transformation of Vakwangali traditional clothing into fashion. Further, the study revealed that Vakwangali are longing to restore the value and meaning that was embedded into the traditional clothing and are open to initiatives of reviving Vakwangali traditional clothing. This study created possible ideas for transforming Vakwangali traditional clothing into fashion from which Vakwangali fashion collection was created. The study recommended that different projects should adopt the suggested styles for different occasions.Item A camelthorn and a rhinohorn: A laboratory theatre experiment of crafting and staging a dramatic event in namibia(University of Namibia, 2019) Ndjavera, DavidThe purpose of this study was to satisfy the quest of uplifting the practical skills and the theoretical background of Namibian untrained actors. This research was structured to address both practical and theoretical components of the theatre process using laboratory theatre principles. The approach, the pursuit of quality theatre, resulted in the production of a play A Camel thorn and a Rhino horn. The challenge of the research was highlighting the need of the Namibian practising performing artists who had a backlog in systematic training/education in performance studies, which contributes to their limitations when performing as actors. Laboratory Theatre provides the artist through practical experiments, (ex peri = beyond boundaries) scientifically based answers pertaining to the theatrical/dramatic elements of playwriting (a wright is a maker e.g. shipwright = a maker of ships; playwright= a maker of plays). This practice-led research and implementation thereof followed and documented the creative process of staging A Camel thorn and a Rhino horn. Significant variables were identified in the study and where possible linked to a literature review. The findings of the study validated the laboratory theatre strategies developed before and during the exploration process. As an ongoing process, it introduces the artist to new and systematic approaches to theatre making. Actors experienced and gained insight and knowledge and the envisaged objectives were obtained. Participants’ testimonies recorded through interviews after the final presentation of the play attest to that. The theme to stage production allowed the researcher to critically engage the dramatic experience of the participants in the laboratory theatre process. The study recommends further utilisation of laboratory theatre elements in future dramatic events.Item A study of Sipelu music and dance among the Masubia people of the Zambezi region of Namibia(University of Namibia, 2017) Karumazondo, EmmanuelThis study examined Sipelu music and dance among the Masubia people of the Zambezi region of Namibia. The main objective of the study was to determine the meaning and beliefs attached to Sipelu music and dance. It also investigated how Sipelu music and dance related to other Masubia cultural elements. The study, furthermore, explored how the Masubia people managed to preserve and transmit Sipelu music and dance knowledge and practice within their community. Interviews were conducted in the Zambezi region with four Sipelu dance groups comprising group leaders, costume makers, song makers and dancers. Photos and video clips of the singing and dancing were also taken to strengthen/validate observations. The main findings reveal that Sipelu music and dance are social activities that takes place throughout the year at different social gatherings in the community. The dance is performed by the dance groups for the King at his palace or when he visits the communities in their villages. Dancing also takes place at weddings, political rallies, beer parties or school meetings but never at a funeral. Each Sipelu group composes its own songs, making its repertoire completely unique from the other dance groups. The composed songs and dances symbolise unity, always addressing social issues in the community. The songs and dances mainly express happiness, sadness, praise or social comments. The dance groups admitted that Sipelu was slowly becoming extinct, hence their efforts to teach the dance to school learners, as well as out-of-school youth. Although Sipelu is mostly practised among the Masubia, it was discovered that the Mafwe people, in the neighbouring kingdom, also practised the same dance. The study finally revealed that Sipelu was not just a dance, but a significant, respected and well-structured cultural practice of the Masubia people of Namibia.Item A visual and theoretical interpretation of sculpted paper as metaphor for the fragility and vulnerability of the human being(University of Namibia, 2015) Nel, RikaThe purpose of this practice-led research was to explore paper as a metaphor for the fragility and vulnerability of the human being. This research focused on child abuse and gender inequality. Research on this theme is of topical value as it is a countrywide, as well as a worldwide phenomenon. This research was undertaken through a literature review, by analysis of relevant artists’ work (particularly those artists whose work engaged with the specific themes of metaphor, the body, memory and remembrance, social commentary, or whose work utilised paper, text, and light as creative materials), and the practical and technical procedures employed in works of art. The literature indicated that although there were certain similarities in the work of other artists, my work was unique in interpretation and execution. None of the artists referenced in this thesis work solely with paper as their medium, nor have they engaged as deeply with paper as a metaphor for the human being. My focus was on developing a personal technique of using paper as a medium of expression and creativity. I used a conceptual approach expressed through an appropriate material, which in this research was paper. I found that through the use of the very fragile medium of recycled tissue paper the fragility of the human form could successfully be expressed. Various other types of recycled paper were also used to express the historical background of the theme of abuse. The art works created for the exhibition (as partial fulfilment of this thesis) also illustrate that paper can be used as a medium for fine arts and not only for crafts. Through my art exhibition the aim was to make the viewer aware of the fragility and vulnerability of the human being and that people should not be silent about abuse and violence, as has been the case for many generations. Although I was making a social comment it is not the role of the artist to offer solutions to these issues.