History

Historical Significance

Despite the various versions about the name, Okahao is an Oshiwambo (Oshingandjera dialect) word that was commonly used in the olden days to refer to a small clay pot also called “Okaiga.” It is derived from the word “Ehao,” which refers to a big clay pot. These pots were useful multi-purpose commodities where almost all household consumables were stored, such as water, traditional beer, cooking flour, etc. The name has become historically fascinating due to a traditional practice of electing a new King of Ongandjera traditional district, which made use of this small clay pot (Okahao). The sacred Kingship items (known as Oshimona sh’ oshilongo) were put in the clay pot and hidden under the water in a well, known as “Okandambo/Okalutha” – the well eventually became significant because of this Kings’ election practice. Potential candidates would then search the clay pot under the water to extract the sacred kingship items in it. The winner would be the one who found the clay pot, which made him the new King of Ongandjera kingdom.