Ondangwa: Ondangwa Urban Constituency Councillor, Leonard Negonga, has called on learners and communities to preserve Namibia's cultural heritage, saying culture remains the foundation of the nation's identity and unity.According to Namibia Press Agency, Negonga made the remarks while officially opening the Ondangwa Urban Annual Constituency Culture Festival 2026 on Wednesday at Oshitayi Primary School, where he said the event provides an important platform for learners and communities to appreciate, preserve, and promote the country's rich cultural diversity."Culture defines who we are. It reflects our history, our values, our traditions, our languages, and the wisdom passed down from one generation to the next," Negonga said. He commended the active participation of young people in cultural activities and described them as custodians of Namibia's heritage."This festival provides a valuable platform for our learners and communities to appreciate, preserve, and promote the rich cultural diversity that m akes our nation unique. It is encouraging to see young people actively participating in cultural activities because they are the custodians of our heritage and the future leaders of our communities," he said.Negonga stated that preserving culture strengthens social cohesion, promotes mutual respect, and fosters unity among communities, adding that while the country continues to modernise, it must remain committed to protecting the traditions and customs that define its identity.Addressing the learners at the same function, the school's principal, Phillemon Ndapuka, emphasised that culture should be embraced and respected because it represents their identity and roots. "Culture provides valuable lessons from the past, where it played a significant role in promoting peace, maintaining order, and strengthening unity within society," Ndapuka said.The festival brought together learners from different schools across the constituency to showcase traditional dance, music, drama, and other cultural performances aimed at preserving and promoting Namibia's diverse cultural heritage. The Oshana Region is hosting cultural festivals across all its 11 constituencies, with each constituency holding its own festival on a designated day for the first time. The programme began on Tuesday in the Ondangwa Rural Constituency and is expected to conclude with the Uuvudhiya Constituency festival on 21 July 2026.