INTERVIEW: Onesimus ǃGoraseb: Bridging Cultures and the Future of Digital Media in Namibia

In a recent conversation, Onesimus ǃGoraseb, the visionary behind the Sankofa Podcast, shared his insights on the intersection of culture and digital media. The discussion delved into the transformative power of podcasting in preserving Namibian cultural heritage and the potential for digital media to address unemployment and drive economic growth in Namibia.

Reviving Cultural Heritage

ǃGoraseb’s Sankofa Podcast is dedicated to celebrating and exploring Namibia’s rich cultural tapestry. By focusing on traditional and cultural content, ǃGoraseb aims to bridge the gap between Namibia’s diverse ethnic groups. His podcast serves as a platform for Namibians to learn about each other’s cultures, fostering greater understanding and unity.

“The core idea is to use our cultural diversity as a unifying factor,” ǃGoraseb explains. “By sharing content from various cultures, such as the Ovaheroro and Damara, we aim to build a more cohesive society.” His podcast not only educates but also preserves cultural practices for future generations.

Positive Reception and Cultural Impact

The response to ǃGoraseb’s work has been overwhelmingly positive. His most popular episode, featuring a deep dive into the Damara Horror Quest dress with Ozzy Bonita, received acclaim from both local and international audiences. This episode highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and sparked conversations about revitalizing traditional practices.

“The feedback has been incredibly gratifying,” says ǃGoraseb. “From university students using our content for their research to international listeners expressing their appreciation, it’s clear that there is a growing interest in cultural content.”

The Future of Digital Media and Monetization

As digital media continues to evolve, ǃGoraseb sees significant potential for growth and monetization. He acknowledges the challenges of building a following with serious content compared to more light-hearted or comedic material. However, he remains optimistic about the future.

“Monetization is definitely on the horizon,” he notes. “Digital media platforms like YouTube and TikTok offer diverse opportunities for earning income. As more Namibians recognize these opportunities, we will see a rise in content creators and a boost to our economy.”

ǃGoraseb also highlights the importance of consistent content creation and the potential for digital media to level the playing field. He believes that digital platforms provide an accessible avenue for individuals from various backgrounds to showcase their skills and services.

Addressing Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the promise of digital media, ǃGoraseb identifies a lack of knowledge and motivation as barriers to wider adoption in Namibia. Many potential content creators are unaware of the financial opportunities available or the steps required to succeed in the digital space.

To address these issues, ǃGoraseb planned a social media conference to educate and inspire Namibians. Although the event was postponed, the goal remains to create a supportive community of content creators and provide practical knowledge on monetizing digital content.

Final Thoughts

For Namibians skeptical about the potential of digital media, ǃGoraseb offers this advice: “Digital media is a powerful tool for both cultural preservation and economic advancement. With consistency and creativity, anyone can turn their passion into a sustainable income stream. It’s about understanding the opportunities and being willing to invest time and effort.”

As ǃGoraseb continues to explore and celebrate Namibia’s cultural heritage through his podcast, he also paves the way for others to leverage digital media in innovative ways. His work underscores the significant role that digital platforms can play in shaping Namibia’s cultural and economic landscape.