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History:
The Nama were one of the
first peoples to enter Namibia. They originally were called “Hottentots,”
with this name no longer being used it is considered offensive. By the mid
nineteenth century they lived in the southern part of Namibia around the
Orange River. Historically the Nama have had major disputes and wars with
other tribal groups, like the Herero, and with the German colonial army.
Their tradition of communal ownership of land and hunting grounds were
often the reason for disputes with the Herero. One of the greatest
Namibian leaders, Hendrik Witbooi, was a Nama leader who played a
significant role in Namibia’s first liberation struggle – his face appears
on all Namibian banknotes.
Present Day life:
Today, many of the Nama/Damara work on large karakul sheep farms or have taken various jobs within the small urban areas. Music, poetry and story telling remain very important in their culture – with many stories continuing through generations. Their traditional crafts include leatherwork, jewelry, clay pots and musical instruments. Within these peoples exist several tribes; however, as is seen across the world, those living in urban areas are losing such distinctions. They will only refer to themselves as Nama or Damara.
[Click on map above for a larger view]
Many of their ancient
traditions continue. The groom’s family must still pay a “lebola” –
typically with cows or money – to the bride’s family. Although it is
permissible to marry outside the tribe as in a Nama marrying a Herero, it
is discouraged by a higher “lebola” cost.
The Nama/Damara language
includes five click sounds and is related to the Khoi-Khoi language. They
typically speak Nama/Damara in their homes and use the more widely
understood Afrikaans language in their community. All of the tribes have
an Afrikaans name that is commonly used.
Religion:
The Nama/Damara are no
strangers to missionary influence. There is substantial current evidence
of the 1840’s Rhenish Missionary work – identification with Christianity
and women even wearing Victorian traditional dress – but most show no
understanding of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Much of their
religious practice is a mixture of empty dogma and syncretism with tribal
traditions. They are traditionally a very superstitious people. For
example, there are many taboos and rites associated with water. Cold
water, as well as raw meat, is considered a source of great ritual danger,
or !nau, which can cause misfortune or even death. Various ceremonies
include the use of animal and human blood. There are even ceremonies that
offer purification after death.
    
[Click on any photo above for a larger
view]
Summary:
Evangelism for the Nama/Damara
people needs to clearly communicate the true Gospel in their
heart language. This will take a movement of God. They need the Lord of
the Harvest to send workers. There are no Baptist churches among them and
very little evangelical influence. They are a forgotten people. Will you
help them to know Jesus?
Go to the
CONTACT US
section to ask questions, to
request a Decision Kit
or to inform us of your decision to adopt a certain People Group.
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