Aranos: The Hardap Education Directorate on Monday officially opened Namibia Heritage Week 2026 in Aranos, featuring cultural exhibitions and performances that showcase the country's traditions. Namibia Heritage Week is being celebrated from 14 to 20 September 2026 under the theme, 'Okupwika Ovirumatwa Vyombazu Yetu nga Kozonditona Zoruyaveze,' which translates to 'Preserving Heritage for the Future Generation.'According to Namibia Press Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by traditional leaders, councillors, regional and local authority officials, educators, learners, cultural practitioners, and community members. Various cultural groups entertained attendees with traditional performances, and exhibitions highlighted aspects of Namibia's cultural heritage.During the official opening, Aranos town mayor Jacoba Viljoen emphasized that heritage week offers Namibians a chance to celebrate their identity, remember their history, and take responsibility for preserving their heritage for future generations . Viljoen highlighted that heritage is evident in languages, traditional clothing, songs, dances, stories, food, crafts, ceremonies, and traditional knowledge passed down through generations.Viljoen stated, 'Heritage is our identity. When we lose our heritage, we do not simply lose an old tradition. We risk losing a part of ourselves.' She urged young people to actively preserve culture by learning indigenous languages, traditional dances, songs, stories, and skills. Young people were also encouraged to use technology and social media to document traditional knowledge, including recording stories from elders and documenting traditional recipes and practices.Viljoen further expressed that Namibia's cultural diversity should be viewed as a strength and a unifying force, encouraging communities to use culture to promote peace, respect, tolerance, and social cohesion. The Aranos community was encouraged to participate throughout the week and to ensure that heritage is celebrated not only during Namibia Herita ge Week but protected and practised throughout the year.