The Wedding of Dr. Venauṋe Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo: A Celebration of Love and Tradition

 The Wedding of Dr. Venauṋe  Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo: A Celebration of Love and Tradition

Attending a wedding for the first time is a special experience and the wedding of Dr Venauṋe  

Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo on June 28, 2024, in the village of Gam, Namibia, was an event that will forever remain etched in my memory. This wedding was not just a union of two people but a celebration of love, tradition, and the unyielding bonds of community.

Dr. Hepute and Kavetara's love story began in the northeast of Namibia, where they met as young individuals uncertain about their future paths. An Otjiherero proverb aptly captures their journey: "Tji tji ku twara kEpembe ko tji i," meaning "You do not know what will take you to Epembe," or in essence, "You do not know what your future holds." Another saying, "Nokokure kuno'woye," translates to "Even far there is yours," signifying that sometimes what is meant for you is found far away.

The journey to Gam was a significant adventure. Travelling over 1,000 kilometres from Opuwo, I was accompanied by Sany7 Sir Tjatumba, Amoz Rutjindo, Horeree Mummy Antonio-Pekaha, Tecko Mburura, Njengo Tjiposa, and our remarkable driver, Mumbimbi Sabinu Tjoola. Mr. Tjoola, a teacher by profession and an excellent mechanic, showcased his skills by helping a broken-down car on our way, which turned out to belong to Dr. Hepute's brother inlaw. Our route took us through Okakarara, Otjinene, and Eiseb before reaching Gam, where we set up our tents behind the main homestead, eagerly anticipating the festivities.

The wedding day, June 29, 2024, was nothing short of magical. For the first time, I witnessed beer flowing from taps as freely as water, and people enjoying themselves peacefully. The live band, Ongoro nOmundu, played to the delight of the attendees, even in a village without electricity, powered by a generator. The presence of notable figures such as Honourable Minister Manombe-Ncube, Deputy Minister of Disability Affairs Alexia P.T., Kunene regional Commissioner Karungoojo James Nḓerura, and Omurari radio presenter Uzera Richard Kariko, among others, added to the significance of the event.

The veterinary Dr. Kapimbua, one of the first Otjiherero-speaking veterinary doctors to graduate from the University of Namibia, also graced the occasion. An elder from Gam remarked, "Orukupo ndwi memunu okutja rwa rangerwa," meaning the wedding was blessed traditionally. Despite a few minor issues, the overall organization and atmosphere were impeccable.

I will always remember my brother, Thuwe Thom, for ensuring that the wedding pieces of music were recorded and well-presented to us. Although some people's songs or names were not announced, as Victor from One Blood was unable to deliver his track, leaving the audience disappointed, Diop's song issue was well explained. However, Victor has yet to address his audience.

Whoever brought the Ongoro nOmundu band, may God bless you. Ongoro nOmundu, keep up your wonderful behaviours and talent, even if you are in the village. You made Dr. Venauṋe Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo's wedding more significant and well-presented.

My son Kataura Tjisemo, and your team, Ueripura Muharukua, Riahama Musutua, and your team, I thank you all greatly for what you have done for me at Gam. Although I went without a blanket or food, I spent the weekend like I was in a hotel. Amos Rutjindo, Lahja Kakondo, and Ruth Nḓerura, you are very special people to me. Rahangana Speedy Pienaar-Hangula, our best storyteller of the weekend, I know you gave Steven Muhenje a tough time, but it was good for us to spend that weekend together.

Our journey didn't end in Gam. After the wedding, we travelled back to Opuwo and then to Okapembambu for another traditional wedding on July 1, 2024. This celebration was marked by the blessings of Ms. Loide Amukoshi, who accompanied me despite the challenging roads.

Dr. Hepute is not just an ordinary person. Like me, he was born into a Christian family. On the 3rd of July 2024, he went to the church to be blessed by his pastor, Tate Pastor Aupokolo. The pastor proclaimed, "Now the LORD God said, 'It is not good (beneficial) for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper [one who balances him a counterpart who is] suitable and complementary for him.” To the friends and age mates of Dr. Venauṋe Hepute, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. I would also like to sincerely thank my younger brother, Steven Kamenii Mupia, who has always been there for his age mate. I want to share a message from the Pastor: for those who are not yet married, if you see Dr. Hepute standing, please offer him a chair, as he has now truly become a man.

After the church ceremony, we travelled to Ombazu to ensure that the people from Dr Hepute's village, who could not make it to Gam, could still be part of his special day. I am proud to say that Dr. Hepute had the best wedding ever in history, with three receptions, offering the finest meals and drinks. My people from Rua-IK, Kaino Hakuenda, and Potuu Mbomboro, your presence at the final reception meant a lot.

I also want to thank my team: Sany7 Sir Tjatumba, Mumbimbi Sabinu Tjoola, Horeree Mummy Antonio-Pekaha, and especially Amoz Rutjitondo. Your efforts ensured that our guests were happy, and we successfully completed what we started at the village of Ombazu. Thank you all.

Dr. Hepute's journey is as inspiring as his wedding. Born on December 6, 1989, in Orumana, he pursued his education at various institutions, culminating in a PhD in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of the Free State in 2022. His thesis, "Assessing the Potential of Food and Fodder Crops Cultivation under Perennial Water Irrigation Cropping Method in Kunene Region, Namibia," reflects his dedication to improving agriculture in his homeland.

Dr. Hepute's educational journey includes a BSc in Agricultural Management from the Namibia University of Science and Technology, an MSc in Sustainable Agriculture, and a PhD from the University of the Free State. He also holds international certificates from prestigious institutions in Italy and China.

As an agronomy researcher, Dr. Hepute has published extensively in recognized international journals. His works include studies on the physiochemical characteristics of Kalimbeza Rice soil, the sustainability of rice production, nutritional value analysis of rice varieties, and assessments of cowpea and sesame crop performance in Namibia.

Dr. Hepute's contributions to agriculture extend beyond research. He is a respected advisor on soil management, crop protection, environmental sustainability, and farm disease management. His guidance emphasizes flexibility, organizational skills, and a passion for helping others.

In his words, "Not the strongest neither smartest who always attain it all but those who are being responsive to change always do," Dr. Hepute embodies the spirit of adaptability and continuous learning.

The wedding of Dr. Venauṋe  Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo was a testament to the power of love, community, and tradition. It brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate a union that promises a bright future. As we departed Gam and later celebrated in Ombazu, the sense of togetherness and joy was palpable. This wedding, marked by three receptions and the best meals and drinks, will be remembered as one of the finest in history, a true celebration of love and Namibian heritage.

The wedding of Dr. Venauṋe  Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo was more than just a ceremony; it was a vibrant tapestry of love, culture, and community. From their humble beginnings in northeast Namibia to their grand celebration in the village of Gam, their journey epitomizes the essence of enduring love and the strength of tradition. This event, marked by heartfelt connections, the presence of esteemed guests, and the joyful participation of the community, stands as a testament to the beauty of unity and shared happiness.

For me, as a first-time wedding attendee, this experience was profoundly impactful. It showcased the power of love to bring people together, transcending distances and backgrounds. The warmth, generosity, and joyous spirit that permeated the wedding celebrations will forever remain in my heart.

As we continue to celebrate milestones in our lives, may we carry forward the lessons of love, unity, and resilience exemplified by Dr. Hepute and Kavetara's wedding. May their journey inspire us to cherish our relationships, honour our traditions, and embrace the future with hope and optimism.

To Dr. Venauṋe  Hepute and Kavetara Hiambonjo, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for a future filled with love, happiness, and prosperity. Your wedding has not only united two hearts but has also strengthened the bonds of community and tradition, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to witness it.

 

Uerimanga Tjijombo

The Himbacracy Philosopher