Oshituthi Shomagongo

Oshituthi Shomagongo is said to be one of the most famous festivals in Namibia. It is also known as Marula fruit festival which is an event lasting two to three days between March and April, bringing together the eight Aawambo communities of northern Namibia through the consumption of omagongo - a traditional drink from the north of Namibia.

To prepare for Oshituthi Shomagongo, men make wooden goblets and miniature serving gourds, as well as piercing instruments from bull horns. Meanwhile, women make the omagongo baskets and clay pots, pick the matured fruit with the help of young people, then extract and ferment the juice for two to seven days in clay pots. They discuss family matters sing traditional songs, recite poems, and share basketry and pottery-making information during the process. Community members and visitors are offered omagongo and traditional cuisine when the fermentation process is completed. Therefore, it is an opportunity for locals and visitors to mingle, sing and dance, and listen to historical stories.

When: between March and April

Where: Northern Namibia