The Himba people in Namibia are a unique set of humans whose culture has a twist that most people will frown upon.
The Himba are often called the Ovahimba or Omhimba people who live in the Kunene region of Namibia. If you are wondering why this tribe is strange, we can tell you about one of their cultures.
They give sex for free to their guests and also they adorn newborns with bead necklaces.
As if these are not enough, the tribe lives in isolation and is wary of external contacts.
The people work hard to ensure that their beliefs and culture are not contaminated in any form by outsiders.
You can see why we are curious to know these people who have not accepted civilization.
The Himba people are predominately livestock breeders and farmers while their women are preoccupied with gathering firewood, cooking and serving meals and sourcing for freshwater.
Some of the villagers are socially inclined and very religious, reversing and worshipping their ancient gods.
Polygamy is welcome and young girls are married off at an early age.
Though polygamy is not peculiar to Africa, it is practised widely on the continent.
However, not taking their bath is strange. Before you are taken aback, the reason why they don’t bathe with water is because of the harsh climatic situation in their region.
The Himba people live in one of the most extreme environments; the harsh desert climate and the lack of potable water are the reasons why this tribe have difficulty getting a bath.
Their lack of bath routine doesn’t mean that they look less pretty. When you find them in their traditional attire, they look great while some have their bodies exposed like the women.
Since taking a bath is difficult, they make use of the red ochre on their skin and then make use of a daily smoke bath to maintain their hygiene.
Shouldering charcoal is dropped into a bowl filled with herbs and the smoke is allowed to ascend the people bow over this smoking bowl and because of heat, the body perspires and helps in washing the body.
The people are friendly to strangers and visitors but will not allow any interference in their culture.
Credit: zambianobserver.com
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