A plain with varied landscape features

The Ohangwena Region lies in north-central Namibia on a flat plain at an elevation of about 1,100 metres above sea level. It is part of the Cuvelai Basin, whose very flat landscape includes sediments of silt, clay and sandstone. Distinct features emerge within this setting: in the east, Kalahari woodlands, shrubs and bushy vegetation shape the landscape. In the west, Cuvelai Oshanas form a drainage network that carries water and sediment deposits from higher-lying areas of Angola.

The connection to these higher-lying areas gives the description of the western landscape a broader spatial context: the drainage network carries not only water, but also sediment deposits. In this way, a specific regional landform—the flat plain—exists alongside a connection between landscape, water and deposits. If you are interested in landscapes, Ohangwena offers more than a single landform: the origin of the water and sediments is also part of the region’s picture.

Eenhana: Remembrance and history

Eenhana is the capital of the Ohangwena Region and a focal point for its historical associations. The town contains at least five mass graves of SWAPO resistance fighters from the Namibian War of Independence against South Africa. The government established the Eenhana Memorial Shrine in 2008 to commemorate the lives lost in the liberation struggle. The Eenhana Shrine was designated a Heritage Place by the National Heritage Council of Namibia on 8 August 2011.

The dates refer to different events: 2008 marks the establishment of the Memorial Shrine, while 8 August 2011 marks the designation of the Eenhana Shrine as a Heritage Place. Along with the mass graves, these details identify different historical points of reference in the capital: a memorial structure, a designation and the fighters’ graves. Together, they offer several concrete ways to understand Eenhana’s connection to the history of the War of Independence.

Omhedi and two points in time

Omhedi also has historical associations. According to the Omhedi Eco Cultural Lodge, Omhedi is the sacred place where King Mandume yaNdemufayo, Namibia’s national hero, made his last stand in 1917. The lodge also states that the Omhedi Eco Cultural Lodge in Omhedi, Ohangwena, is home to the royal residence of Queen Martha Mwandinomho yaKristian Nelumbu, Ohamba of Oukwanyama.

The two statements differ both in content and in their time reference: Mandume’s last stand is dated to 1917, while the residence is described as a present-day function. Compared with Eenhana’s memorial associations, Omhedi thus brings together a historical event and a description of a residence. If you are interested in the region’s history, these places offer different perspectives on remembrance and royal connections.

Discover more destinations: Oshikango, Khomas, Oshana, Karas, Omusati, Erongo, Zambezi Region, Hardap.

For the main travel overview: Namibia.