The Himba Tribe: Otjize

otjize

A himba woman identity

The Himba tribe of Namibia, living primarily in the arid Kunene Region, are renowned for their cultural traditions. The use of otjize is standing out as one of their most distinctive practices. Otjize is a paste made from a mixture of butterfat and finely ground red ochre, often infused with aromatic resins.

Otjize holds important cultural, practical, and symbolic significance, particularly for Himba women.

Applied daily to the skin and hair, otjize serves multiple purposes. On a practical level, it acts as a protective barrier against the harsh desert sun, shielding the skin from UV rays and preventing it from drying out in the arid climate. Otjize also serves as an insect repellent and helps maintain skin hygiene in an environment where water is scarce and bathing opportunities are limited.

Beyond its functional uses, otjize carries deep cultural meaning. The rich reddish hue symbolizes blood and the earth—both central elements in Himba cosmology and representing life, fertility and a connection to their ancestral land. Women begin using otjize from a young age, and its application becomes an essential daily ritual passed down through generations from mothers to daughters.

The Otjize paste is also intricately tied to the Himba’s elaborate hairstyles. Women’s hair is often styled into thick braids or cone-shaped designs coated in the paste. Each style is signifying a woman’s age, marital status, and social standing. The preparation of otjize is a ceremonial act, reflecting the importance of beauty and tradition within Himba society.

In a world increasingly influenced by modernization and external pressures, otjize remains a powerful symbol of cultural resilience. It represents the Himba tribe’s commitment to preserving their identity, honoring their heritage, and maintaining a deep connection to their environment. For the Himba, otjize is far more than a cosmetic product: it is a statement of pride, tradition, and survival.

Want to visit the Himba Tribe?

I met the Himba briefly during my first trip to Namibia, in 2018. When I came back to Namibia in 2019 we visited a small Himba village near Puros. Although it looked like an authentic village, there were only a few women and children and not much activity. There was a handicraft and souvenirs for sale, and they have regular visitors. It was a great introduction to Himba culture, but we wanted to learn much more about the authentic Himba and immerse myself deeper into their culture and also stay a night with them.

After some online research I found Tjingi, a Himba and freelance guide. From some online reviews it was clear he was the right guide for us. And wow, did he deliver! He brought us to an incredibly authentic Himba village, with a few absolutely lovely families. They welcomed us with open arms, proudly showing their way of life. We had an unforgettable experience and it was a highlight of our 4 week trip! You can read and see more about our visit to the Himba here:

I promised Tjingi to help him get more guests, not only for himself but also to be able to support some Himba families. So I built him a website, www.HimbaTribe.com. If you want to visit the Himba tribe, I highly recommend Tjingi. Click below for his website, some of his programs and contact details!

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The Himba Tribe, Namibia

The Himba are an indigenous semi-nomadic people residing primarily in Namibia’s arid Kunene Region, with some communities also found in southern Angola. With a population of approximately 50,000, the Himba are renowned for their resilience, cultural traditions, and distinctive appearance, which have remained largely unchanged despite external influences and modernization.

The Himba tribe of Namibia, living primarily in the arid Kunene Region, are renowned for their cultural traditions. The use of otjize is standing out as one of their most distinctive practices. Otjize is a paste made from a mixture of butterfat and finely ground red ochre, often infused with…