Goethe-Institut and UNAM Complete Museum Outreach Programme to Enhance Cultural Diversity in Namibia

WINDHOEK — The Goethe-Institut and the University of Namibia (UNAM) have recently concluded their collaborative ‘Museum Outreach Programme’, which focused on bolstering civil society and cultural diversity in Namibia. The programme aimed to promote social cohesion, inter-ethnic dialogue, and cultural tolerance across the nation.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), The European Union funded the project with approximately N.dollars 4 million, complemented by the Goethe-Institut’s contribution of around N.dollars 1.3 million. The project, spanning 46 months, was a joint initiative of the Goethe-Institut Namibia and UNAM. EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana-Beatriz Martins, speaking to Nampa, highlighted that one of the project’s significant achievements was strengthening cultural rights, especially of marginalized and indigenous communities.

Martins emphasized the importance of community-based museums in empowering local communities and indigenous minorities, enabling them to express their culture, preserve traditions, and provide a sense of belonging. She encouraged Namibians to support and actively engage with these community-based museums, underscoring their role in preserving the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions in the country.

Dennis Schroeder, director of the Goethe-Institut Namibia, stated that the initiative focused on three pillars to transform Namibia’s museums and heritage sector. These included transforming community-based museums into interactive spaces, empowering local communities and indigenous minorities through conservation training, and professionalizing heritage practitioners.