Hompa Sofia Mundjembwe Kanyetu of the Shambyu Traditional Authority has called upon the citizens of the two Kavango regions to prioritise the importance of culture.

Hompa Kanyetu has been ruling the Shambyu Traditional Authority for the past 10 years.

Guests from near and far gathered at Kayengona Village over the weekend to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her reign.

The village of Kayengona came alive with drumming, dancing and singing.

In a message read on behalf of the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, he highlighted that the occasion is a reminder that traditional leadership is not only about preserving history.

It is about providing direction for the future while remaining firmly rooted in the values that have sustained communities for generations.

Governor of the Kavango East Region Hamunyera Hambyuka explained.

“Under the leadership of Hompa Sofia, the Traditional Authority has continued to promote unity, preserve the rich cultural heritage of the VaShambyu people and provide guidance during times of change. Her leadership has been characterised by wisdom, humility, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of her people. Your Royal Highness, your reign has demonstrated that culture and development are not opposing forces – they complement one another.”

During her speech, the Hompa took the opportunity to express how some of the locals seem to have forgotten about their cultures and traditions.

“I am calling on parents to teach the young people about customs and the importance of heritage. Many a time we blame the young people for their behaviour but what do we expect if we do not teach them? If the young people don't know where they are coming from, they will not know where they are going.”

Various other traditional leaders congratulated the Hompa on her achievement. Hompa Alfons Kaundu, of the Mbunza Traditional Authority, highlighted that being a Hompa comes with a lot of challenges but advised her to remain calm and fair at all times.

Hompa Aruvita Kayoka of the Gciriku Traditional Authority boasted that the vaShambyu are blessed to have a wise traditional leader and wished her well.

Speaking on behalf of Fumu Erwin Mbambo from the Hambukushu Traditional Authority, Headman Muragguli Shintango said it is not easy to lead people but congratulated the Hompa on her 10th anniversary.

The Shambyu traditional leader acknowledged that it was a little hard in the beginning of her reign, but she managed to get the hang of it as time progressed and largely attributes it to her belief in God.