Windhoek: Professor Petrus Mbenzi, a prominent Oshiwambo academic at the University of Namibia, has urged Namibians to confront the growing issue of tribalism, stressing that the problem stems from misunderstanding cultural identities and misusing language.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Mbenzi clarified the crucial difference between 'tribe' and 'tribalism', noting that belonging to a tribe is simply a reflection of one's cultural heritage, whereas tribalism involves harmful loyalty to one's group at the expense of others. "Tribalism is not just about hatred or discrimination. It is about a mindset, an inherited way of thinking that we must unlearn," he said, highlighting that being part of a tribe, whether Oshiwambo, Herero, Damara, or any other ethnic group, is not inherently problematic.

"If I say I am an Omuwambo Omuherero, that is simply identifying who I am. It is not tribalism, but when we start looking down on the cultures of other groups, that's when tribalism enters," he explained.

Professor Mbenzi also addressed the damaging effects of politically incorrect terms, arguing they perpetuate division and marginalisation. He cited the word 'Omkwankwala' as a specific example, which he argues has been misused in political contexts to insult and exclude other ethnic groups, particularly the Damara. "The term has been abused in politics to attack others. We need to avoid such terms, as they only promote hatred and division. Politically incorrect terms marginalise and offend, while politically correct terms bring people together," he said, emphasising the importance of using respectful, accurate terms when referring to other ethnic groups.

"It is essential to use language that promotes unity, not division," Mbenzi said.

In addition to language, Mbenzi emphasised the role of cultural events in fostering unity. He pointed to Namibia's annual Totem Expo and the Omagongo Festival as examples of occasions that can bring different ethnic groups together. "Totemism transcends tribal lines. People from different ethnic groups can come together and celebrate their shared totems, like the lion or elephant. This is a powerful way to promote unity," he stressed.

Mbenzi also added that multilingualism could play a role in reducing tribalism. "We need to encourage our children to learn multiple languages. If Namibians learn each other's languages, we can foster greater respect and understanding. Unity comes when we respect each other's cultures and languages. We must teach our children to avoid politically incorrect terms, to embrace each other's cultures, and to promote unity in diversity. Tribalism has no place in Namibia's future. Unity is strength, and we must work together to build a more inclusive society," Mbenzi noted.