The Basler Afrika Bibliographien and Dr Lovisa Tegelela Nampala (Ohangwena) invite to the Book Launch and Round Table on Infrastructures of Migrant Labour in Colonial Ovamboland, 1915 to 1954.

Speakers: Dr Nampala with discussant Dr Napandulwe Shiweda and panelists Dr Martha Akawa, Dr Mike Shirungu and Dr Michael Akuupa

Master of Ceremony: Dr Nashilongweshipwe Mushaandja

ON THE BOOK
Most research on the migrant labour system in Namibia under South African colonial rule emphasises its dehumanising aspects. In a complete contrast, this study highlights the social and ritual resources that contract workers and their families in colonial Ovamboland mobilised to provide forms of support and connection across great distances and absences. Based on extensive oral research, this study peels back the layers of intangible infrastructure that sustained migrant workers through all the stages of their contract, including observances around workplace deaths. This thesis vividly demonstrates the persistence of older practices that sustained the bonds of life, fellowship and family under stress, as well as adaptation to new colonial system such as the postal system.

Venue: National Library of Namibia, Foyer, 1–3 Eugene Marais Street, Windhoek

Date & time: Wednesday, 11 September 2024, 5pm for 5.30pm, traditional attires of their choices

RSVP: Ms Victoria Isaacks, info@nlas.gov.na or Tel: +264 61 293 5111

A book table, copies for the press and refreshments will be available.
Book Distributor: Namibia Book Market, Tel +264 61 23 6938, contact@namibiabooks.com

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