Street Football Rules of the Old Days: Through the Lens of Himbacracy Philosophy

 

Street Football Rules of the Old Days: Through the Lens of Himbacracy Philosophy

By Uerimanga Tjijombo (The Himbacracy Philosopher)

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1. No Referee

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: The absence of a referee symbolises a pure and egalitarian system where the game thrives on mutual understanding and collective decision-making. In the spirit of Himbacracy, this rule celebrates self-governance and accountability, emphasising the wisdom of the community over hierarchical oversight.

2. The Game Ends Either When Players Are Tired or at the Maghrib Call to Prayer

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: Time, in this context, is fluid and tied to natural rhythms and communal practices. The acknowledgment of Maghrib reflects a balance between recreation and spirituality, underscoring the Himbacratic belief in harmony between individual joy and collective cultural duties.

3. The Score is 23-22

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: Scores in street football often transcend mere numbers. A game where the score is 23-22 is a poetic nod to persistence, creativity, and an unspoken agreement to play until satisfaction. It mirrors the Himbacratic ethos: what truly matters is not perfection but the experience of the journey.

4. A Penalty is Given if a Player Swears on God

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: This rule reflects moral grounding within the game, tying ethics and respect to accountability. In Himbacracy, this mirrors the principle that actions must align with values, and boundaries rooted in shared beliefs create a respectful and inclusive space.

5. The Chubby Person Becomes the Goalkeeper

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: This practice is a playful yet pragmatic approach to resourcefulness. The chubby individual is not marginalised but embraced in a role that suits their strengths, reinforcing Himbacracy’s call for recognising diverse abilities and integrating them into collective success.

6. If the Ball Owner Gets Angry, He Takes the Ball, and the Game is Over

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: This highlights the subtle power dynamics in informal systems. The ball owner represents authority, and their mood determines the game’s fate. This rule underscores the Himbacratic principle of negotiation and diplomacy to maintain harmony in shared endeavors.

7. The Foul is Counted if Everyone Agrees

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: Consensus is the cornerstone of this rule, embodying the Himbacratic philosophy of participatory governance. It emphasises that fairness is not imposed but emerges from shared agreement, fostering respect and trust among participants.

8. The Wall is a Good Player and Can Be on Your Team Anytime

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: The wall is a silent ally, embodying adaptability and resourcefulness. In Himbacracy, it symbolises the unseen forces and supportive structures within a community that can be tapped into when needed, enhancing the collective effort.

9. An Extra Player is Allowed if the Teams Are Not Equal

   • Himbacracy Viewpoint: Equity over equality shines here. Himbacracy cherishes dynamic adjustments to ensure balance, reflecting that fairness doesn’t mean identical treatment but accommodating differences to level the playing field.

10. Goalkeepers Can Be Changed During a Penalty Kick

• Himbacracy Viewpoint: Flexibility and strategic shifts align with this rule. It symbolises adaptability and the Himbacratic value of rethinking roles in moments of high stakes, ensuring the collective’s benefit takes precedence over rigid norms.

11. If the Ball Goes Over the Crossbar, the Game Pauses for Half an Hour to Discuss Whether It’s a Goal or Not

• Himbacracy Viewpoint: Debate and discourse are integral to community decision-making. This mirrors the Himbacratic belief in the value of dialogue, even if it’s lengthy, as long as it leads to consensus and a shared understanding.

12. The Ball Owner Plays for the Stronger Team

• Himbacracy Viewpoint: Power dynamics are at play, and this rule acknowledges the natural hierarchy introduced by ownership. Himbacracy would argue for the negotiation of fairness here, urging the stronger team to utilise their advantage for inclusivity rather than domination.

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Final Thoughts

Street football, as seen through the philosophy of Himbacracy, is a microcosm of community life. It celebrates diversity, adaptability, consensus, and the balance between individual roles and collective goals. These cherished rules are not just about football they’re a reminder of the values that sustain humanity and create unforgettable memories.

Greetings to everyone who lived these beautiful moments!

Ecological Construction: A Himbacracy Perspective

Ecological Construction: A Himbacracy Perspective

Uerimanga Tjijombo (The Himbacracy Philosopher)

In the philosophy of Himbacracy, ecological construction is not merely a practical solution; it represents a profound symbiosis between humanity and the environment. It is a reminder that progress need not be at odds with nature but can, instead, work harmoniously with it. Here, the utilisation of cow dung in house construction becomes a symbol of interconnectedness, respect, and sustainable ingenuity.

1. Thermal Insulation: Respect for Natural Cycles

Himbacracy views the use of cow dung for insulation as an acknowledgment of nature's cycles and gifts. By leveraging the thermal properties of cow dung mixed with clay, communities honour the inherent wisdom in natural materials.

• Philosophical Lens: Nature provides what we need, not as a luxury but as a necessity. Using such materials demonstrates a trust in the earth's provisions to create living spaces that are attuned to the rhythms of heat and cold. This aligns human life with ecological cycles, emphasising balance over domination.

2. Durability: The Philosophy of Longevity

Durability, from a Himbacracy perspective, reflects the deep understanding that structures should be built to endure while minimising ecological footprints. The tough, hardening layer created by mixing dung and clay is a testament to how natural elements can synergise for lasting impact.

• Philosophical Lens: True durability is not found in synthetic permanence but in the ability to renew, adapt, and sustain. Structures made with dung celebrate impermanence by allowing repair and natural reintegration at the end of their lives.

3. Economy and Sustainability: Equality Through Accessibility

The affordability of ecological construction materials like cow dung aligns with Himbacracy's emphasis on equitable resource distribution. This approach reduces reliance on industrialized products that are often inaccessible to marginalized communities.

• Philosophical Lens: The practice of using local and renewable resources embodies humility and gratitude. It is a defiance of material excess and industrial dependency, prioritizing community welfare over capitalist gains. The choice of such materials fosters equality, as it empowers even the most resource-limited individuals to create dignified homes.

4. Hygiene and Protection Against Pests: Coexistence With Nature

Insect-repelling properties of cow dung reveal a subtle yet profound insight: nature's solutions are holistic. By using cow dung as a protective barrier against pests, Himbacracy sees a harmonious coexistence rather than an adversarial relationship with the environment.

• Philosophical Lens: In Himbacracy, this practice exemplifies the idea that nature does not harm without offering protection. Humans, as stewards of the land, are tasked with understanding and utilising these natural defence respectfully and wisely.

5. Smooth and Easy-to-Clean Floors: A Symbol of Order and Harmony

The practical application of dung-water mixtures for smooth, cleanable floors goes beyond utility. It represents a philosophy of simplicity and intentional living. The ease of maintenance ensures not only comfort but also a spiritual connection to cleanliness and order.

• Philosophical Lens: The act of smoothing a floor with such a natural blend signifies the unity of function and form. It is a meditative process, a ritual of grounding one's home in the earth itself, reflecting harmony between human effort and natural resources.

Conclusion: An Embodiment of Ingenuity and Tradition

For Himbacracy, ecological construction practices such as using cow dung in homes are not merely traditional; they are a profound statement of ecological wisdom and resilience. They symbolise a partnership with the environment, where resources are used respectfully, sparingly, and intelligently.

• Final Philosophical Note: By adopting and celebrating these practices, Himbacracy calls for a return to values rooted in sustainability, humility, and community-centred progress. It is a call to honour the ingenuity of ancestors who, with limited resources, demonstrated boundless creativity and respect for the world around them.

The Himbacracy Philosophy

 

The Himbacracy Philosophy

The Himbacracy Philosophy is rooted in values drawn from the Himba people's cultural wisdom, focusing on authenticity, emotional balance, trust, and simplicity. Let's expand on the ten powerful truths of this philosophy, reflecting deeper insights for each point:

1. Silence is more powerful than trying to prove a point.

• In Himbacracy, silence represents strength, patience, and wisdom. There is immense power in listening more and speaking less. Silence shows confidence and inner peace, allowing space for reflection. When people choose not to argue or justify themselves, they demonstrate control over their emotions and wisdom over impulsiveness, understanding that not every situation demands a response.

2. When trust is broken, 'sorry' means nothing.

• Trust is a sacred bond in Himba culture. Once it is violated, the connection between individuals is fundamentally altered. In this context, apologies are hollow if not followed by genuine, reparative actions. The Himbacracy Philosophy teaches that integrity and trustworthiness are essential for building lasting relationships, and when these values are compromised, words alone cannot restore what has been lost.

3. Control your reactions; learn to react less.

• Reacting less is about mastering your emotions and embracing calmness. In Himbacracy, self-control is valued over impulsive reactions. It reflects the belief that emotional restraint leads to better outcomes and fosters inner peace. By not reacting quickly to external provocations, one maintains dignity and gains clarity, which prevents unnecessary conflict and fosters harmonious living.

4. When you are honest, you lose people who do not deserve you.

• Honesty attracts the right kind of people and repels those not aligned with your values. Himbacracy emphasises that honesty is a filter that separates authentic relationships from superficial ones. Losing people who cannot handle your truth is a blessing because it frees you from those who would hinder your growth and keeps you connected to those who genuinely appreciate you.

5. One beautiful heart is worth more than 1,000 beautiful faces.

• True beauty, according to Himbacracy Philosophy, is found in character and kindness, not physical appearance. A kind, generous heart surpasses superficial attractiveness. The Himba culture celebrates inner qualities such as empathy, compassion, and generosity, which contribute to the community's collective well-being.

6. Small circle, private life, clear mind, and happy heart.

• The value of simplicity is at the core of Himbacracy. A small, trusted circle of close friends and family, combined with a private and peaceful life, leads to mental clarity and emotional fulfilment. This truth reflects the importance of quality over quantity in relationships and the idea that a peaceful, content heart arises from living authentically and without excess.

7. Never go back to somebody who has broken you.

• In Himbacracy, self-respect and dignity are paramount. Returning to someone who has hurt or broken you is seen as compromising your worth. Moving forward and preserving your strength is better than revisiting painful situations or people. This truth underscores the importance of learning from the past and not allowing oneself to be diminished by those who fail to honour your value.

8. Stop overthinking; you cannot control everything; just let it be.

• Overthinking is viewed as a drain on emotional energy. Himbacracy teaches acceptance and the importance of surrendering to the natural flow of life. Trying to control every aspect of life leads to anxiety and frustration but letting go brings peace. This reflects Himba’s deep connection to nature and the understanding that some things are beyond human control, and that’s okay.

9. If somebody is stupid enough to walk away from you, be smart enough to let them go.

• Wisdom in relationships means knowing when to let go of those who don’t appreciate your value. Himbacracy teaches that self-worth should never be compromised by chasing after people who walk away from you. Letting go of those who fail to see your value is a sign of strength, ensuring you remain open to relationships that truly deserve your presence.

10. True friends are rare; if you have one, you are very lucky.

• In Himbacracy, true friendship is seen as a rare and precious gift. True friends stand by you through all seasons of life, providing support, love, and loyalty. If you are fortunate enough to have even one genuine friend, you are blessed, as this bond is invaluable and deeply cherished in the Himba tradition.

 

Congratulations to Kandipoli Charlotte Munongo, "The Queen of Tjiurunga"!

 Congratulations to Kandipoli Charlotte Munongo, "The Queen of Tjiurunga"!

Kandipoli Charlotte Munongo, "The Queen of Tjiurunga"

Today is a day of great pride and celebration as we honour your remarkable achievement of graduating with a Diploma in Education from the University of Namibia. Born in the heart of Otjiurunga, in the Epupa Constituency of Kunene Region, your journey has been one of perseverance, dedication, and passion for education.

From your early days at Oukongo Primary School, which later became Oukongo Combined School, your thirst for knowledge was evident. Your time there from 1999 to 2006 laid a solid foundation, and your continued pursuit of learning took you to Putuanga Junior Secondary School in 2007 and 2008, and then to Kandjimi Murangi Senior Secondary School in the Kavango West Region from 2009 to 2012. Each step was marked by your unwavering commitment to personal growth and academic excellence.

After completing secondary school, you began your teaching career at Okahozu Primary School, where you made a significant impact on the lives of young learners. But you didn’t stop there—you knew that education could take you even further. With this determination, you joined the University of Namibia, where you have now earned your Diploma in Education, specializing in Junior Primary Education. This milestone is not just a personal achievement, but also a victory for your community in Otjiurunga.

As a proud Dhemba lady, you have continuously represented your village, putting Otjiurunga on the map. Your dedication to education has always been clear. You have consistently spoken about the transformative power of education, and your own journey is a living testament to the truth that education can take someone further than they ever imagined, no matter where they come from.

Your success today is an inspiration to all who know you, especially to the young girls and boys in Otjiurunga and beyond. You have shown them that with hard work and determination, they too can reach great heights. Your story is a reminder that no matter how humble our beginnings may be, with a strong belief in the power of education, we can create a bright future.

We celebrate you today, Kandipoli Charlotte Munongo, for your achievements, your passion, and your dedication. As "The Queen of Tjiurunga," you are not only a leader but also a beacon of hope for your community. May this be the beginning of even greater things to come, and may your story continue to inspire and uplift many others.

Congratulations once again on this well-deserved success. We are incredibly proud of you and look forward to seeing the positive impact you will continue to make in the field of education. Your village, your region, and your country celebrate with you today!

Shine on, Queen of Tjiurunga! 🌟

Uerimanga Tjijombo

The Himbacracy Philosopher

Everyone needs someone

Everyone needs someone else to become someone in life. It was in 1999 when a philosopher met a current security officer who, back in the day, had been a learner at Oukongo Primary School. During that year, the security officer was in Grade 2, and his class teacher was Ms. Kandambo. One day, while the philosopher was escorting his young sister and cousin across a river due to heavy rain and flowing water, he encountered Matouje Ujee Tjimbiri Nguaundjozondu Tjiharuka, on his way to school.

In that era, many Ovahimba children weren't sent to school to tend to livestock, and both Ujee and the philosopher were among those who hadn't attended school at a young age. However, Ujee had taken the initiative to attend school by himself in 1998. When the philosopher met Ujee, they exchanged greetings. Ujee encouraged the philosopher to attend school, but the philosopher expressed concern about not having a school uniform. Ujee assured him that the teacher, Ms. Kandambo, wouldn't mind.

Together, Ujee and the philosopher went to school. Upon arriving, they attended the morning assembly and then entered Ms. Kandambo's class. The philosopher struggled to answer Ms. Kandambo's questions, and unfortunately, he was among the learners who received punishment. The youngest person in the class, was The Queen of Tjiurunga Kandipoli Charlotte Munongo.

During the break, the philosopher questioned Ujee about the possibility of ongoing beating. Ujee reassured him that it wouldn't continue and encouraged him to persist. After completing their first term, Ujee moved to Otjerunda Primary School, and the philosopher lost interest in Oukongo Primary School. Despite wanting to switch schools, his parents opposed the idea. However, with the help of a current Inspector Mbinge, who was a senior learner at I.K Tjimuhiva Combined School, the philosopher's father was convinced to allow him to transfer there.

The philosopher and Ujee reunited at I.K Tjimuhiva Combined School, where many events transpired. The story is to be continued.

Historical Firsts: Exploring Key Figures and Their Contributions to Education, Timekeeping, and Cartography

 

Historical Firsts: Exploring Key Figures and Their Contributions to Education, Timekeeping, and Cartography

 

I was attempting to answer these queries, which I have seen numerous times on social media posed by different users. Then it occurred to me that, in my capacity as a scholar, I ought to research these issues and look for proof using the Himbacracy philosophy. While I don't think I have the finest solutions, I have tried to use some of my academic background.

Here are the questions:

1.      The first person to have a degree, who was teacher

2.      The person who made money, how much was he paid?

3.      The person who started education, who taught him?

4.      The person that designed the calendar, how did he know the date it was?

5.      The person that drew the maps of the world, where was he standing?

6.      The person made the first clock, how did he know it was.

These enquiries address historical enigmas or details on the earliest advancements in timekeeping, mapping, and teaching. Each question is broken down as follows:

1.      The first person to have a degree and who was a teacher: Scholars from mediaeval universities in Europe, such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna) or Thomas Aquinas, who studied and taught philosophy and medicine, would rank among the oldest known degree holders in history. In the 12th century, anyone teaching at a university like the University of Paris or Bologna would have been referred to as a "teacher" or "professor".

2.      The first person to make money and how much they were paid: The idea of money has existed for thousands of years; the first coins were struck approximately 600 BCE in ancient Lydia, which is today a part of Turkey. The first individual to "make money" or receive payment is unknown, although coins like the Lydian stater were among the earliest forms of money, and their value was determined by their weight and amount of precious metal.

3.      The person who started education and who taught them: The origins of formalised education are longstanding. Confucius (551–479 BCE) is frequently cited as one of the first teachers to create an organised teaching approach. Older writings and customs, such as the I Ching and traditional Chinese knowledge, influenced his teachings. But there were earlier educational systems in Mesopotamia, India, and ancient Egypt.

4.      The person who designed the calendar and how they knew the date: In order to improve the Julian calendar, Pope Gregory XIII created the Gregorian calendar in 1582, drawing on the work of academics such as Christopher Clavius. For the purpose of precisely fixing dates, they depended on observations made by astronomers, mainly about Earth's orbit around the Sun.

5.      The person who drew the first map of the world and where they were standing: Around the sixth century BCE, the Greek philosopher Anaximander is frequently credited with drawing one of the earliest maps of the entire planet. Nevertheless, rather than taking a worldwide viewpoint, early maps were dependent on the stories of explorers and sailors. Later, another Greek, Eratosthenes, determined the circumference of the Earth, which enhanced map accuracy.

6.      The person who made the first clock and how they knew it was time: Early mechanical clocks were constructed in Europe in the 13th century, and they were an advancement over water and sundial timepieces from prior times. Time was measured by early clockmakers like Richard of Wallingford and Giovanni de Dondi using the motion of the Sun and stars.

To make their discoveries, these early innovators frequently used observation, teamwork, and trial-and-error methods.

Uerimanga Tjijombo

The Himbacracy Philosopher

Himbacracy: A New Philosophy Rooted in Authenticity

 

Himbacracy: A New Philosophy Rooted in Authenticity

A new philosophy has emerged in the centre of Namibia, amidst the sweeping landscapes of Otjiurunga, captivating the minds of many. "Himbacracy," a term coined by the visionary Uerimanga Tjijombo, is more than a mere concept; it is a way of life that is profoundly rooted in the traditions of the Himba people, who have long been admired for their unwavering commitment to authenticity and rich cultural heritage.

What is Himbacracy?

The quality of being genuine, real, and true is encapsulated by the noun Himbacracy (pronounced Him-buh-krey-see). It is frequently associated with the traditional rule of the Himba people and reflects a state of authenticity and legitimacy. The term is a combination of the Greek word "kratia," which means rule or governance, and the suffix "cracy," which is derived from the noun "himba," which refers to the ethnic group known for their unique way of life.

 Himbacracy is fundamentally a governance or guiding principle that prioritises authenticity, sincerity, and veracity. It is a philosophy that offers a universal call to embrace one's authentic self and live in harmony with others, transcending cultural boundaries.

The Origins of Himbacracy

The genesis of Himbacracy can be traced back to the childhood of Uerimanga Tjijombo, a young lad from the village of Otjiurunga. Uerimanga was nurtured in the village of Otjiurunga, where he was enveloped by the majesty of the Himba way of life and the wisdom of his elders. He was captivated by the teachings of authenticity and truth that permeated his community from a tender age. These teachings would subsequently influence his comprehension of the world and motivate the development of Himbacracy.

Uerimanga's insatiable curiosity motivated him to immerse himself in the spirituality, philosophy, and history of the Himba people. He dedicated innumerable hours to the study of ancient texts and to the exchange of profound conversations with the elders of the village. One such moment of contemplation occurred beneath the village's sacred baobab tree, during which the concept of Himbacracy was fully formed in his consciousness. He came to the realisation that the values he had been raised with were not merely personal convictions; they could serve as the basis for a novel philosophy that could serve as a guide for both individuals and communities.

The Impact of Himbacracy

Himbacracy rapidly acquired recognition beyond the confines of Otjiurunga village. Authenticity was adopted as a guiding principle by a movement that was inspired by Uerimanga's philosophy and resonated with individuals from all aspects of life. Otjiurunga became a tangible illustration of Himbacracy in action under his leadership. The villagers, under the guidance of Uerimanga's teachings, established a community that was based on honesty and transparency, nurtured the land, and cultivated a profound connection with their heritage.

Himbacracy transitioned from a regional philosophy to a global movement as the years progressed. Uerimanga's influence was extensive, inspiring individuals from various cultures and continents to adopt the principles of authenticity and truth. The universal appeal for a more genuine existence, one that honours the wisdom of the past while navigating the complexities of the modern world, was sparked by his humble beginnings in Otjiurunga.

A Legacy of Authenticity

Today, Himbacracy serves as a testament to the transformative potential of a single individual's vision. A revered figure, Uerimanga Tjijombo was once a young boy captivated by the beauty of his surroundings. His teachings continue to inspire a global pursuit for truth. He is an ambassador of authenticity.

Himbacracy serves as a beacon of hope in a world where superficiality frequently obscures authenticity, reminding us that the pursuit of truth, sincerity, and genuine connection is not only feasible but also indispensable. The philosophy of Himbacracy continues to have a profound impact on the lives of individuals, serving as a potent illustration of how the wisdom of a small Namibian village can spark a global movement.