/Nami #Nus: Lessons From the Past for a Sustainable Future

THE NAME Aminius, which is actually /Nami #Nus, a Khoekhoegowab (spoken by Nama people) word meaning ‘Ostrich Farm’ (volstruisplaas in Afrikaans), tells a story that many people in the Omaheke region may no longer remember. Place names often preserve the history of a community. In the case of /Nami #Nus, it serves as a reminder of a time when ostriches roamed freely across this beautiful landscape.

Sadly, today’s reality stands in stark contrast to the history reflected in the name. During my father’s first visit to /Nami #Nus in the 1970s, he witnessed a disturbing sight: piles of dead ostriches lying alongside the road. Many were killed solely for their skins, with the rest left to rot.

It was an example of short-term exploitation with little regard for sustainability or future generations. Today, one would be fortunate to spot a single ostrich in an area that once carried their name. The disappearance of these birds raises important questions about how communities use and manage natural resources.

Had there been greater awareness of sustainable resource management at the time, perhaps future generations would still enjoy the sight of ostriches thriving in their natural habitat. The story does not end there. SCARCITY AND SUCCESS My mother often recalls her school days at /Nami #Nus when mornings brought a breathtaking spectacle: large herds of springbok would gather and dance across the salt pan, creating a scene of natural beauty that left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.