Notes 
1. Places marked on the online map accompanying this historical sequence are coloured in green in the text below. They can be found on the google map by searching on their name.

2. Follow these links for full references and a list of abbreviations.

3. A double-asterix [**] is a marker that there is something to be checked or added at this point in the text.

4. Information and/or connections are welcome! Please email etoshakunenehistories@gmail.com or futurepastscontact@gmail.com

Major Charles N. Manning

Major Charles N. Manning was appointed Resident Commissioner of Ovamboland in 1915, at the historical moment at the start of WW1 when Deutsch Südwestafrika was placed under martial law under the rule of the Union of South Africa. This administrative period from 1915-1920 has been described as characterised by both liberalism and paternalism^[1]. Some of Manning’s acts can be read in terms of a consolidation of British / Union of South Africa rule and a diminishing of German administrative presence, as when in September 2017 he sends ex Sergt. BÖY, inhabiting the German Fort in Sesfontein, back to Outjo and he and his team work to place ‘dilapidated buildings and neglected gardens in some order after long occupation of this Station by’ the now ex-Sergt.^[2] 

Manning made two significant treks into Kaoko in the north-west of the country in 1917 and 1919, ‘concerned with the demarcation of ethnic groups and the identification of political leaders associated with them’^[3]. The term ‘Kaoko’ is thought to derive from a Herero word ‘okaoko’, meaning ‘left arm’ and referring to the position of ‘Kaoko’ on the left or south bank of the Kunene River^[4], okaoko signaled the territory encountered to the left as Herero pastoralists approached from the east. It distinguished this area from the territory immediately north of the Kunene that is now the south-west part of Angola and that was called ‘Ongambo’^[5]. In the 1850s the Swedish explorer Charles John Andersson learnt the name ‘Kaoko’ for the north-west^[6] and maps subsequently drawn of the area under German colonial rule (for example the Deutscher Kolonial Atlas of 1893) depict ‘Kaoko’ as stretching southwards from the Kunene to beyond the Huab River towards Dâures / the Brandberg^[7]. The German Geographer Georg Hartmann (1897) referred to the north-west as ‘Kaokogebiet’ (i.e. ‘Kaoko area’), producing a map derived from his travels here in 1904. Following WW1 and as the territory came under Union of South Africa ‘protection’, the area stretching from the Kunene to the Hoanib River in the south became known as the ‘Kaokogebiet’ (i.e. ‘Kaoko area’) and ‘Kaokoveld’^[8]. The term ‘Kaokoland’ is the name for the ethnic homeland created in north-west Namibia following the Odendaal Commission in 1970, and lay between the Hoanib and Kunene Rivers reaching west to the Skeleton Coast National Park. Technically speaking, the name ‘Kaokoland’ is no longer in use, given that the ‘Homelands’ were dissolved at Namibia’s independence in 1990. The area formerly designated as Kaokoland is now constituted by the Epupa and Opuwo Constituencies of Kunene Region. ‘Kaokoveld’ is also used as a term designating a biogeographical centre for species assemblages, first by Shortridge^[9], and now considered as a Centre of Plant Endemism and Diversity (CPED) extending from the Ugab River in the south (including the Brandberg / Dâures massif) northwards to Port Namibe in Angola, and bordered in the west by the Atlantic Ocean and in the east by ‘an arbitrary line’ starting west of Ruacana southwards through Kamanjab^[10].

Today, ‘Kaokoveld’ continues to evoke multiple imaginaries associated with the north-western corner of Namibia associated with a specific confluence of ‘wilderness’^[11] and exotically traditional people – the otjiHerero-speaking Himba^[12]. ‘Kaoko’ constitutes a focus for a rich revisionist historiography^[13] and ethnographic engagement^[14]. This work centres in part on the lingering dynamics of indigenous consolidation in the early 20th century, associated with the former Himba-Herero Native Reserves in the very north of current Kunene Region – from west to east, Kakurukouye’s Reserve, Vita Tom’s Reserve, Muhonakatiti’s Reserve^[15] – as well as on historical texts detailing colonial and apartheid administration as this both encountered and constructed the north-west of the country. The reports to the emerging South West Africa administration in 1917 and 1919 by Major Charles John Manning, the first Resident Commissioner of Owamboland – written in the moment of as the territory was transferred from German to British hands during and in the wake of WW1^[16] – are of particular relevance here, as is the ‘ethnological report’ to the South African Department of Bantu Administration by van Warmelo in 1951 (republished in 1962).

An outcome of Manning’s trips to ‘Kaoko’ in 1917 and 1919 was the production what has become known as ‘the Manning map’: a ‘remarkable’^[17] map of north-west Namibia, a copy of which was deposited with the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) in London. Manning has been described as having ‘fantasies of following in Francis Galton’s footsteps as an explorer and geographer’^[18], with historian Patricia Hayes arguing that he ‘implicitly represented himself as the successor to a line of explorers and travellers [to the territory] such as Francis Galton and Charles John Andersson, inserting himself as it were in Galton’s wake as the geographer and cartographer of the remoter parts of Owambo and Kaoko’^[19].

In 1917, Manning toured Kaoko from Owambo from 2 August to 1 November, a moment that immediately follows the so-called Mandume campaign to remove the recalcitrant Kwanyama king Mandume ya Ndemufayo^[20], who is pictured dead after a skirmish at his homestead Oihole on 6 February^[21]. Mandume had moved his capital from Ondjiva in Angola to Oihole in Namibia, after failing to prevent Portuguese invasion of Kwanyama territory in Angola^[22] under General Pereira de Eça, having received confirmation of protection by Major Pritchard on 2 September^[23].

Manning’s full report and map, submitted from Ondonga on 15th November 2017 following submission of extracts and copies of his personal diary, is split into 4 sections plus additional ‘special subjects’^[24] -‘mountains’, rivers’, ‘water supply’, ‘trees’, ‘roads’, ‘agriculture, farming etc.’, ‘land values’, ‘Zesfontein vs. Kaoko Otavi’, ‘native population’, ‘labour’, ‘firearms, political aspect, administration’, ‘veld fires’, ‘tsama melon’, ‘game’, ‘climate’ - and 12 photos of various places visited. His revised Kaokoland Map marks ‘ROUTES taken by me as also all places actually visited or verified recorded on map for first time are marked or written in red. This also applies to alterations and corrections. [added by hand –] Shaded patches indicate “natives”’^[25]. He frequently notes his frustration with what he sees as the inaccuracy of previous maps, often using this as a justification for denigrating the cartographic work of German travellers to the area. He similarly expresses frustration with the complexity of local names. Thus,

All maps available are misleading or meagre re Kaokoveld which is now principally Kaoko-Herero – latter know few of names mentioned. OTJIKAKANENO is a river but shown as part of OKOHERE (HARTMANS MAP) and not at all on KUNTZ map. Defence shows it as a spot on map. It is said  to run west and join the ONGONGO or OWARUTHE R. (on which MUHONA KATITI is) – this latter river is probably what is shown on maps as HOARUSIB. There are many obsolete Bushman or Hottentot terms which being also mispronounced ten to cover existing maps with useless words. Names used by present inhabitants north of Sesfontein should be adapted for practical purposes and some uniform method of native spelling as used in the Union NATIVE AFFAIRS would be advantageous.^[26]
And,
[i]n spare time endeavouring reconcile many inaccurancies on maps especially re: source & basin of OWARUTHE (HOARUSIB) River. Made rough sketch.^[27]

Manning is keen to institute a new system of government and control, based on a typical suite of statecraft technologies, including reducing the availability of firearms, controlling the hunting of ‘game’, establishing a hierarchy of headmen in specified areas, and controlling movement and trade, as can be seen in the follow extracts:

Had meeting explained our system Govt. & Headman reported possession 7 muzzle loaders & 3 M.H. guns – Lt. Olivier after consultation decided had policy disarm friendly people reporting with firearms as this country very vast and we should not discourage such advances and away would be law-abiding people until general disarmament practicable. By giving this headman a certificate or pass he will be useful man to Govt.^[28]]

We are publishing fact that this country is coming under stricter control and traffic in guns etc. will be severely dealt with^[29].

Lt Olivier being the officer actually in charge of expedition or patrol spoke as a rule in consultation with me. He explained our system of Government peaceful methods WARNED people against grass burning, gunrunning, elephant killing, disturbance of others rights etc. & against any further lawless acts such as killing of people, robbing of cattle. The feeling of uneasiness & chance of anything serious occurring having evidently worn off we explained that we Europeans as well as all tribes in Protectorate had to have firearms recorded by Govt. & that Oorlog was going to report every gun he had when we reached his place further NORTH therefore MUHONA and people must provide all theirs. There was a little talk & demur but eventually 25 M.H, type rifles & bandoliers were handing over & immediately put under guard. We pointed out Rooiland (elephant hunter said to have gone to MUALA’s country Ovamboland) had 3 good guns & several other people still had some & we could not get a proper record unless they produced. MUHONA said he only used a [?unreadable] but two guns had gone to Oorlog’s with messengers. It would be impossible to record exactly what recovered at this meeting as the subjects changed every few minutes & the Ovatshimbas certainly proved themselves masters at lying & confusing issues.^[30]

In this revealing extract, Manning betrays his simultaneous sense of superiority and responsibility by quoting Rudyard Kipling’s 1899 poem The White Man’s Burden, written as an exhortation to the US government to take on the mantle of colonial adminstrative responsibility over the Philippines^[31]:

Foregoing comprised main discussion but minor questions continued all day – two men have been detained to answer for recent cattle thefts & quarrels – The people themselves say they have had many disorders & chaos. It is thus that our Govt. is frequently compelled to take country under its control – simply for the sake of inhabitants already there but no doubt following is approximately correct in this instance also

“Take up the white man’s burden

And reap the old reward.

The hate of those ye better

The blame of those ye guard.” ^[32]

His hierarchical racism is apparent in his framing of the more westernised Vita Tom / Oorlam and followers as ‘more intelligent’ compared to the more traditionally attired, and thus ‘savage’ and ‘ignorant’, Muhona Katiti, thus,  

Am opinion that MUHONA should only be left after guns taken & he pay some compensation besides probably acknowledging the more reliable OORLOG as Govt. Headman. It would have been premature before we heard both sides but this appears only solution for peace & good order throughout KAOKOVELD in which Oorlog & MUHONA most important sections but latter’s all that are savage, ignorant shameless whereas Oorlog’s lot a most intelligent people who would be very useful to preserving peaceful conditions & preventing gunrunning via Kunene or MUALA (Ovamboland). Lt. Olivier strongly approves & was going to recommend also. There is reason to believe that many of MUHONA’s people would be glad of this & that old MUHONA would agree especially when no longer able to move[?] from one grazing ground to another without slightest control hitherto. We therefore working to this end which when complete will eventually be submitted for sanction. A mule which MUHONA states he found near the Kunene has been taken over as derelict[?] property. There are many minor matters such as alleged old stock thefts from Portuguese RATO & British C Division in Angola Lt. Olivier keeping in view. We tell these Ovatshimba they should go to labour centres but it might almost be as well to suggest same to jackals.^[33] 

Manning makes his last tour of Kaokoland in 1919[?], accompanied by ‘Cocky’ Hahn in March and in April-May^[34].

The text that follows reconstructs Manning’s journeys, his experiences and his impressions of the territory and peoples of north-west Namibia in this important historical moment. It draws in particular on the following archival sources from the National Archives of Namibia in Windhoek:

‘Manning Report 1917’ (NAN SWAA 2516 A552/22 Kaokoveld, Major Manning’s Report, 1917), with additions made from his extracts of his diary.

NAN ADM 156 W 32, General Kaokoveld Report by Major Manning, 15 November 1917.

Manning’s handwritten ‘Diary Notes, for Secretary for the Protectorate’ 04-050817 [**check dates] [included in italics below];

Manning’s handwritten ‘Diary Notes Extracts’, Manning, C.N. 1917 Extracts From Diary of Major C.N. Manning (Resident Commissioner Owamboland) during period of duty in Kaokoveld, S.W.A. 161117-081117 [**check dates] Submitted 9th November 1917 to the Secretary for the Protectorate. Windhoek: South West Africa. NAN Kaokoveld: Major Manning’s Report. Vol. 1. 1917 SWAA.2516.A552/22.

Statement taken by Major C.N. Manning at Zesfontein, Kaokoveld in presence of Lt. Olivier^[35], 2nd M.C. from Native Chief Vita, alias OORLOG or ORO, on 19th August 1917.

Manning letter to van Ryneveld 140817.

NAN SWAA 2516, Report by Major C.N. Manning re 2nd Tour to Kaokoveld; Disarmament General, 25 August 1919]

***

Manning’s instructions in July 1917:

were to accompany the Officer’s patrol then on way to late German outpost, Zesfontein, to particularly co-operate in settlement of hostile dispute between two armed native sections in Northern Kaokoveld,- one under Kaoko-Herero or Ovatshimba headman MUHONA KATITI - represented as headman by his brother KARAHUPA (alias KARAVAPA) who had been to Cauas Okawa^[36] (east of Kamanjab) Police Station and made serious allegations as to murders and robberies against the other [complaining ‘that Oorlog had killed some of his people’),- a more civilised half blood Herero headman, OORLOG^[37], who had gone to Windhuk to personally repudiate charges [complaining ‘that Karahupa had been the aggressor should be called upon to produce the bones of people that Oorlog was said to have killed’^[38]]. I was also to see as much as possible of the Kaokoveld and inhabitants and to report generally on conditions for the Administrator’s information^[39].    

Oorlog returned to Zesfontein ‘but was reported to have refused to go further towards his neighbourhood as he feared an attack by Karahoupa’^[40].

Manning writes in his diary notes extracts that he was to accompany:

as representative of the Protectorate Administration an officers patrol consisting of Lt. and Troops with wagons, to [‘the late German out-post’^[41] of] Zesfontein where a Police Post was to be established and used inter alia as a base for intelligence relating to Kaokoveld^[42].

The patrol makes use of forward stationing of horses and camels^[43], and seeks to assess the economic potential of the area, as well as to ascertain the whereabouts and activities of native populations - his report and map reads like a stock-take of territory, resources, and peoples, in which he constantly compares his observations with prior German and Union of South Africa Defence maps, especially noting inaccuracies or discrepancies with what he encounters^[44]. His mission in particular is to settle a longstanding and vociferous dispute between two Herero headmen to the north of Kaokoland, as well as to report on the country and inhabitants to the British Protectorate Administration. Manning writes a detailed report of extracts from his diary^[45] and contributes a map of the area and the ‘natives’ encountered in the north-west.

His 1917 trek takes place on horseback and foot^[46] accompanied by native interpreters in Herero and Namaqua languages arranged in Whk^[47], in the driest time of the year^[48] [Aug-Oct] – the report and map from this journey is housed in the National Archives of Namibia, with a hard copy of the map – which is several square feet in size – also held at the RGS.

General observations made by Manning:

Rivers frequently have several names according to water places along (water)course^[49]

KAOKO HERERO viz OVATSHIMBA of Bantu Class, largely outnumber Nama speaking people such as Hottentots, Namibdaman alias Sandkaffirs, Ghodaman alias Klipkaffirs, and Bushmen who in small numbers near Sea Coast, at and South of Zesfontein only. Languages totally different. Latter have many clicks, Herero like Ovambo, have none. Confusion in names of places thus arisen apart from several inaccuracies, misspellings and important omissions on existing maps. Some places obviously wrongly located have been crossed out and correctly shown^[50].  

Of general concern are the status of big game in the Reserve [?**], unauthorised presence of Europeans, illicit trading, gun running and information regarding various Herero, Ovatshimba, Hottentots and Bushmen tribes known to be somewhere in N.W., generally described as wandering armed bands living on game and by occasional raids on each other.^[51]

1. Journey no. 1. = Otjiwarongo railway station to Zesfontein, 283 miles

- Otjitambi (Herero name for the warm springs) north-west of Outjo [310717] = ≠Anhes (see below)

‘Good cattle farm and building open permanent water in warm springs’^[52].

Occupant C. Schlettwein, Agent for the Kaokoveld Land and Mining Company ‘which has most of the interests in this vast territory’, plus ‘resident farm Natives’^[53]. Telephone terminus from Franzfontein is here at time of Manning’s visit^[54].
‘Great destruction been caused to trees grass and useful tsama melons by extensive veld fires along route. Schlettwein blames wandering bushmen, some natives reported burnt’^[55].

- Cauas Okawa / Okauwa / Kawas Ikava [010817]

‘Police post. Small building good condition. Permanent ample water in well. A few local natives. Road good except small stony section. Near here caught up with Liut. Oliver with… supply wagons. Shortly afterwards handed over camels brought by me[?]’.^[56]

[On map: just south of here a permanent spring called ‘Hirabis§’ is marked. Also, Manning notes Andersson’s May 1858 attempted journey north of Cauas Okawa to Ovamboland – ‘unsuccessful for want of water’^[57]]

- Kamanjab [010817-030817]

‘Road good. Stockfarms. Permanent well water and trough in HUAB river bed. Elephants been here twice recently. Veld burnt off by wholesale fires. Occupants, owner STAUBENRAUCH also GAERTIG – both had applied permission remain there, which outside police zone. Some farm natives.’^[58]

‘NOTE re Grootberg. Wagon road turns off S.W. near KAMANJAB for Grootberg where owner BOBBE also GERLACH and EISEB[?] reside and applied continue that prohibited zone. Great Mountain ranges, ETENDEKA go Northwards from there into KAOKOVELD’.^[59]   

- Kaross^[60] or Otjimerungu (now Africat North) – [040817] [= on map: south and slightly east of Otjiwathandu / Qoabendus = Otjovasandu]

Good wagon road to here. ‘Excellent stock farm and ample water in concrete wells with troughs in small river bed. Owner VON STEIN. Not occupied. Several Herero families. Country through which travelled from KAMANJAB flat and fertile; water apparently near surface in places, patches grass not burnt off by beneral veld fires, good. Transport road to KAOKO OTAVl (maps = GAUKO OTAWl), Swartbooi’s Drift and Angola goes North from here and reported good with ample water, besides being through best portion viz. Eastern Kaokoveld ZESFONTEIN road continues more W. and this we followed. (N.B. Travellers should be prepared for stretch ahead of nearly 50 miles without water which at CAYIMAElS (map= GAIMAIAIS) although ANABIB supply available near latter but in stony ridges off road.’^[61] 

Most of the country seen so far is as good if not better than in most of Protectorate. With a railway and boreholes say in eastern portion of Kaokoveld, farms would be very valuable for cattle raising on large scale. Saw signs of elephants having been in river-bed months before. Fine grass and big thorn trees there. WITGAT, KAMEELDORN & MOPANE trees along road but largely destroyed by fires as also the few patches of tsama melons.^[62]

- Kaientes (Herero – Ombaweyeyo) [050817] [= on map: south and slightly west of Otjiwathandu / Qoabendus = Otjovasandu]

Paused KOANTES or KAIENTES (26kms from Kaross) where camel and[?] riders ahead had left note saying some bad rain? water in well in hole in kloof on right hand^[63].  

‘Road stony sandy and washed out in places. Waterhole in lime rocky hills E. of road but not good or dependable. Barren Mopane bushveld locality. Abt 1 1/2 mile from KAIENTES the road crosses at right angles dry river bed of QOABENDUS or Herero OTJOWATHANDU (map= KHOABENDUS) which river bed comes from place of same names and goes in S.W. direction into what is evidently top end of main HOANIB river which latter then goes N.W. and parallel to but some distance from road, up to CAYIMAEIS, thence past Zesfontein’.^[64]   

- NQAUDAUB (map = NAUDAB) – temporary well in river bed/tributary of same name, dry in winter, going west into Hoanib River.^[65]

- GHONANASIB (Defense Map = CHONANASIB) – ‘is along road and E. of Hoanib and comprises open fertile strip with good grass and trees’^[66], without water in Aug-Oct 1917 and uninhabited^[67].

QAQANANQABAB / Def. map = GOABDANAS) = ‘similar place further on’.^[68]

ANABIB (H – OKONJOU) [060817] – ‘is indicated by two kopjes W. of road. Dry water course runs across road from small krantz kloof situated quarter mile E. in long range rocky hills; above this kloof is permanent ample water in old concrete well with trough; approach difficult and by hill track, S. side only. No large trees or other such indications presence of water except birds. Uninhabited locality.’^[69] Old track with uncertain availability of water leads north from here towards Otjikongoyi§ / Uruwanje§ with good spring water 040619 & 090719 where ‘Quagga’ are observed nearby and also ‘copper’ marked on map slightly to north-west of here^[70]. In letter of 140817 to Mr Van Ryneveld he mentions that German personnel would ‘drive by car as far as Anabib and by previous telegraphic notices have horses waiting to take them through the gorge and thence to Sesfontein^[71].

CAYIMAEIS (maps = GAIMAIAIS) [060817] into ‘Khowarib Schlucht’ nb. Pictures taken here showing that they were travelling with camels, i.e. ‘troop’ would go first and be joined by supply wagons led by Lieut. Olivier. ‘commencement of strong running stream, permanent water in HOANlB River bed where several palms trees first. This point between high mountain ranges and opposite red precipice W. side and rocky spur E. side where we placed beacons. For about 5 miles from ANABIB country open and no stones thence after crossing broad sandy bed of HOANIB at curve we soon entered deep poort or gorge flanked by great precipices of the KHOWARIB Mt range which about N.E. to S.W. across our direction. In gorge one again meets HOANIB River bed which then followed, crossed and recrossed on journey ahead. High banks, washaways and deep sand. Impossible for motor traffic[!!]. Much vegetation and great number magnificent Ana trees (Aapies doorn.) About 6 miles in gorge to [p. 6] water which excellent and sufficient for thousands of animals. Saw gemsbok and giraffe spoor at entrance but game said to have been trapped and finally exterminated from gorge which natural home for unlimited number. (Quantity good iron piping about 1 ¼” lying here, which might be useful to Government). I remained here with Troop until Lieut. Olivier caught up wagons when we moved on to next camping place near’..^[72]

Includes horses and a camel, plus what appear to be native boys/young men.

[≠]QWAKORABA[||]XOS (Def. Map = GOAGOROBAOS) (080817)  

Manning asserts permanent running water here in Hoanib.  

‘Klip kaffirs and other Nama speaking natives state name signifies “death of those crossing” – this probably arisen from fact that original large tribe Hottentots who crossed and went Zesfontein much diminished owing unhealthiness that place’^[73] [i.e. avoids reference to rinderpest and repression by German colonial government!]

KHOWARIB (080817) around 12km from Caymaeis.

‘Good stream of water which runs in Hoanib at intervals all way from CAYIMAEIS ends here’, plus ‘[a] few Ghodaman natives (Klip Kaffirs or Bergdamaras in charge cattle post here belonging to Zesfontein Hottentots whose Reserve said to extend as far as this point’^[74].

WARMBAD (Otjiwarongo^[75]) – farm of C. Schlettwein [described elsewhere as ‘a reliable man I am sure’^[76]], occupied by an Italian B. Oldani [pictured] described as ‘a decent enough chap’^[77]. ‘Warm springs, permanent water, small house. Concrete aqueducts for irrigation, much land under corn, lucerne and mealies. Some native families on farm, road from Khowarib through open country, sandy and crossed Hoanib dry River bed’^[78].

ANABIS 080817 – now Anabeb, cf. Salmon Ganuseb**

Permanent water here – ‘Good road through open bush country. No occupants. Camped for night here’^[79].

ZESFONTEIN (Herero Hamheke, Nama or Hottentot NQANICAUS) 090817

‘For some distance from ANABIS the Hoanib bed which eventually turns seawards goes parallel with wagon road through precipitous gap [=≠Os] in high mountain ranges which encircle large grass and thornbush plain or basin, at N. W. side of which are the several warm springs in foot hills just behind and North of TOPNAAR Hottentot settlement and late German Military Barracks and enclosure. Found ex German Sergt. BÖY residing here with quantity mixed stock etc. [described separately as ‘who for some reason has been living in the Sesfontein Fort all these times and now leaves per wagons going south … and wants a lot of watching’^[80]] OORLOG, several followers and sons awaiting our arrival [how did they know they were coming?**] and stating unable proceed to homes in Northern Kaokoveld for fear serious collision with MUHONA KATITI who alleged holding mountain passes.’^[81]   Manning writes in a wire to the ‘Protsec,Windhuk’ that ‘Zesfontein was abandoned [by the late, i.e. German, government] as isolated and unnecessary’^[82].

It is rumoured that a few ‘trading Boers with Portuguese have arrived at Oorlog’s place [Otjitambi?] noted as difficult, impossible, at the time to get from Zes to Gauko Otawi, even with camels] and are waiting for him to return and buy various goods’^[83].

‘Statement taken by Major C.N. Manning at Zesfontein, Kaokoveld in presence of Lt. Olivier, 2nd M.C. from Native Chief Vita, alias OORLOG or ORO, on 9th August, 1917’.

Reproduced here almost in full:

I think I am about 50 years old. My father is a Bechuana now living in Angola and my mother is a Herero of OMARURU. Born OTJIMBINGWE. Missionary Hahn was there then. When old enough to shoot I went with my father under Green [**?] the hunter elephant shooting on OKOVANGO [Okavango] RIVER thence ONDONGA [Ondongwa] under OVAMBO Chief KAMBONDE where we met hunter ERICKSON known as KARAVUPA. My father had been with Green and Missionary Hahn at Ondonga before when Chief NANGORO tried to kill them. Erickson, my father and I went to OVAKUANYAMA country and Green went South again. We saw Chief SHIPANDEKA at ONDJIVA. He was friendly like successors NAMBATHE and WEHURU also NANDE before MANDUME who was wrong in the head. We then crossed the Kunene River to HUMBE where Portuguese Fort was. Thence MPATA where Boer settlement is. My father was given NEVE§ [in Huíla Province] as a settling place. Erickson went back to Damaraland [i.e. central Namibia, probably Okahandja]. We had many people with us and they worked transport for the Boers to MOSSAMEDES. For several years I worked with Portuguese Authorities going towards Benguela Railway etc. I was called upon to assist with my people against the HUMBE tribe who killed 50 of my followers and many Portuguese before being overcome. We also assisted against the OMRONDO tribe on the Kunene River also against the EVARE people near OVAKUANYAMA and later against some OVAMBOS on the OKOVANGO River. I went on Portuguese Government orders each time. There were many smaller expeditions to suppress unrest in the land. After the Herero war many fled to me at Neve§ for protection against the Germans (1904). Before the big famine in Ovamboland (1915) Mandume had killed some Portuguese traders and later his headman KALOLA captured six cannons and five wagons from Portuguese escort going to KASIMA§. An expedition got to MDNGWE§ where Mandume fell on the laager. For four days his army fired on the Portuguese troops and my people. I was hit through the side and show the wounds. (Through right side and through ribs. CNM.) I obtained permission to make a sortie with my men which I did and the Ovakuanyama fell back to ONDJIVA. We followed and found Mandume had burnt his great kraal at ONDJIVA and fled to Namakunde. Later I saw the English Officers who met the Portuguese at ONDJIVA. I mention here that before my sons were born (about 30 years ago? CNM.) an OVATSHIMBA named MUHONA KATITI being driven out from Kaokoveld by Hottentots came to me in Angola with his people for protection. He had nothing and I gave him cattle and small stock also a blanket. He wears no clothing like us. I got Portuguese authority for him to live near me. He got rich and left me to go to TSHABIKWA§ in Angola. There he murdered a Portuguese trader named INASO and took his property besides burning his wagon. He fled from Portuguese Police to an island in Kunene River. Hearing that I was coming together with a party of Europeans ordered by Govt. to arrest him, he killed 26 Kaoko Hereros who had a vee-post near the Kunene. The survivors fled to us without any property at all. Some are with me now (Statements will be taken. CNM.) It is now 5 years ago when this occurred. MUHONA KATITI then fled south to the Kaokoveld and settled at MUHONGO river (vide German map CNM). He then trekked to OMBUKU which is junction of Muhonga and Kunene Rivers. The Boers William Venter, Andries Alberts and several others came with Portuguese to arrest him but he got away to his former place on Muhonga River. Some of his cattle were however captured. The Portuguese still want MUHONA KATITI. During this year MUHONA went across the Kunene and killed a herd boy of Jacob Erickson’s (living in Angola) and he stole 150 cattle bringing them back to Muhonga. I have one of Erickson’s riding oxen and know his brand. Many people have seen the same brand on cattle Muhona has. The mark is – on right -. After the war with Mandume the Portuguese thanked me for all my services including those at Naulila and as I wished to go back to [2] Kaokoveld under the new government, I trekked with about 200 people and stock South of the Kunene via Swartbooi’s Drift to OTJITAMBI alias OTJIJANJASEMO near MUHONGA river but we have a large spring at OTJITAMBI. There are two big palms there. We found a man named Hangerwa there and he welcomed us. We planted mealies and kaffir corn. This was early in 1916. Muhona Katiti had killed the son of Kasupi of Ombepera and he was also afraid that I was coming with Boer people across the Kunene and he trekked before I arrived at Otjitambi and went to Ongwati thence Ekoko§ (or Owaruthe§) where he now lives. This is 1½ days on foot South of me [where?] and 4 days on foot going North from Zesfontein. I sent three times to Muhona Katiti asking him in a friendly way why he had trekked. He replied he would come back but was grazing his cattle. I then heard that he had sent a messenger to his brother Karapupa (Karahoupa? CNM.) to Cauas Okawi to complain to the English that I had murdered his people. He said I had killed 26 men and 2 women whome I was alleged to have taken from him to wife. A man I sent to buy tobacco from the Zesfontein Hottentots told me about these lying reports and I with my sons and others left home to see the Government [where?] about the matter but at Warmbad we heard the Troops had gone to Ovamboland so we went home and I sent four men Adriaan, Lukas, Edward and Mbepera to Cauas Okawi Police Post. They returned with a letter or pass ordering me to come to Cauas Okawi with Muhona Katiti to have the matter discussed. I sent a messenger Kabiritu to Muhona Katiti saying we should go together to Government. Muhona Katiti would not listen but took away the man’s horse, gun, saddle and everything. He had the man beaten with kerries as one can see from wounds on the man’s chest now (Marks still visible CNM.). I wnet [sic] to Gauko Otwau and from there sent two Hereros to tell Muhona Katiti that the English police ordered us to come. He said he would have nothing to do with the Police and would not go. I went by myself to Windhuk and returned to Zesfontein after seeing Government. I have not gone further than here because I have heard from many people that Muhona Katiti is waiting for me on the different roads near Onganga. If I go we may fight and I am afraid of offending the Government and the Law. I only wish to have peace and have no wish to have war but I want to get home for food.

Sgd. VITA alias OOLOG. His X mark.  

130817, Sesfontein

Statement by ‘NATIVE KOMBINGA son of MATURE[?] (deceased) formerly of KAUKU§ in ANGOLA [‘Portuguese country’] and under PETTY CHIEF OORLOG of OTJITAMBI (OTJITANJESEMO) KAOKOVELD’ - Kombinga states that when six years previously he lived with his father in ‘Portuguese country’ not far from Erickson’s Drift§ he knew the trader Inaso (see above) who visited with ‘his wagons and goods’ when Muhona Katiti was living on Kunene River Island. He says:

The Portuguese was sitting at a table near his goods when Muhona Katiti surrounded the place and his son fired hitting Inaso through the back of the shoulders under chin and through the top of the head. Muhona then looted everything and burnt wagon. I and my father also two natives Kambarawe and Karamendu [both present at interview] helped to carry the dead Portuguese to the Fort at Gambuwe or Shiremba where we reported matter. The Portuguese sent out a party but Muhona Katiti went to an island on the Kunene River and later on killed 26 Kaoko Hereros in Angola including my father. I escaped with Kambarwe (wounded in foot and showing scar) [2] and Karamendu to Oorlog. I actually saw Muhona and people kill our 26 people and taking out stock to where he afterwards removed into Kaokoveld. Muhona had no cause of quarrel with us except that my father protested when he robbed us of a large horned ox^[84].

Kambarawe and Karamendu then confirm ‘that Kombinga is speaking the truth’ and that ‘[b]oth of us were wounded by Muhona Katiti and escaped with out [sic] people. We both saw the Portuguese killed. He had done nothing against Muhona Katiti and had everything looted including span of oxen’^[85].  

In Sesfontein on 140817 Manning writes a letter to a Van Ryneveld describing his journey as ‘long and rather rough … but interesting’^[86]. Zesfontein is described as,

a square built sort of fort, crumbling walls and part of it hardly likely to stand another rainy season. The place is nicely laid out with rows of date trees, plantains, figs etc. & irrigation from the several springs rising just at the back of the place in what appears to remaining of an old volcano. A circle of hills closes in the plain on west of which is the little settlement known as Zesfontein – only wagon road is that coming on through a poort on WARMBAD side. Oorlog still here. We may make a patrol into the Northern Area next week – it is a vast territory through MUHONA KATITI seem to be the savage and murderous person up there though it is only hearsay evidence so far. Will take things steadily and see what turns up but I don’t anticipate much serious trouble. KARAPUPA a younger brother is old MUHONA’s headman messenger. The native population [2] is comparatively small. Perhaps 450 men between Kunene Rr. & Zesfontein. I can find no trace of any white man at all north of Zesfontein & as far as is known there are no traders or trekkers anywhere. Oorlog lives near the Muronga Rr. not far from Swartboois Drift & Muhona at Otjihere§ (Omrunthe§) between Oorlog & Zesfontein. It is a great pity to see such great stretches of country burnt off north of Outjo - trees & TSAMA burnt in most parts – the latter are worth specially preserving but when burnt the whole patch is destroyed.^[87] 

Manning notes ‘some gun running from Kunene to Kaokoveld has been done by Owambo natives’, plus observes Hahn needing to ‘get more of a move on in regard to much needed Ovambo labour in the south’^[88]. He asks ‘could you raise me a little tracing paper (about 3 yards) [presumably for his map] and carbon copying book, viz. for duplicate letter writing’ for which he ‘should be obliged, provided they are to spare’^[89].

150817

Telegram from Major Manning to Hoofd, Windhuk, reads:

Party arrived Zesfontein 9th … & established x All well x Oorlog still here but shortly returning home x we intend making extensive patrol North x meantime awaiting reply to message sent to MUHONA KATITI who is reported committed murder and robberies ANGOLA and KAOKOVELD last few years x He now reported stopping roads against OORLOG x KARAHOUPA is younger brother of MUHONA KATITI whom he represented at CAUAS OKAWA x our reports to date being posted. Signed C.N. Manning^[90]

… two native messengers from Oorlog’s settlement in North came with him to us and reported that they had decided to come and see how he was at Zesfontein and accordingly risked coming along the mountain path past Muhona Katiti’s kraal. They found latter headman with only a few people & no signs of stopping the road against Oorlog against whom he however hostile but it appears Muhona has despatched his brother Karapupa (Karahoupa) to Cauas OKAWA Police Post again via Gauko OTAVI & thus missed us & our messengers who still away. Lt. Olivier will send message to Cauas OKAWA to inform Police that Karapupa should be told we have been sent here to inquire into dispute. We think Oorlog should leave to-morrow & we will follow on 17th… for Northern area patrol & hope to come to some settlement about all this unrest.^[91] 

Have now made out the following supplementary telegram for Hoofd, Whk

160817

Since my wire 15th … reported MUHONA KATITI despatched KARAHOUPA to CAUAS OKAWA again via Gauko OTAWI x latest information Muhona Katiti not stopping roads against OORLOG at present x we commence patrol northern area to-morrow.^[92]

2. Journey no. 2. = Zesfontein to Kunene River via Oolog’s settlement: Ombepera and Atlantic Coast and return Zesfontein, 654 miles, 180817-041017

In Sesfontein Manning and team work to place ‘dilapidated buildings and neglected gardens in some order after long occupation of this Station by ex Sergt. BÖY’ (sent back to Outjo [cf. consolidation of British / Union of South Africa rule]) also gathering information from Oorlog, sending messages to Muhona Katiti and ‘meeting local Hottentots’^[93]. He accompanies a patrol (?) going northwards ‘by mountain route’ in more remote parts of Kaokoveld^[94].

Camel post left for Outjo this morning. Saw Oorlog followers with Lt. Olivier – they all anxious we should accompany them to and beyond Muhona Katiti kraal as they say although they do not desire to have any trouble they wish to have unrest at an end…^[95].

Saw Oorlog who sent some men ahead on foot – he leaves with riding oxen to-morrow and me also first good water said to be OTJIKAKANENO N and slightly west of here. Find it difficult to reconcile maps and in many cases important omissions found or mass of unknown particulars and names given.^[96]

180817 he leaves Sesfontein ‘with Lieut. Olivier, 16. N.C.Os and men, horses, packs, etc. also OORLOG, sons and several ‘Oorlams’ [**interesting that he uses this term!] followers^[97], - our destination being latter’s settlement due North via that of MUHONA KATITI which was reported temporarily near source of HOARUSIB (more widely known as OWARUTHE) River. Passing through small Topnaar Hottentot village [= ≠Gudipos?] lying West of Barracks and leaving Hoanib river bed on our left or W. side as also the old German N.W. survey wagon track**[= the German wagon pass we travelled over?], we turned Northwards [??] to first water OKAPARA [9] or NCAUS … Small spring running water [**I think this is !Gaus]. Leaving valley of GHONANASIB (Hottentot) alias KOWORAB[spp.??] (Herero) or HOANIB (German map) River on our left running west towards the sea. Then entered large conglomeration of mountain ranges known by some as HAMAHEKE. They form big barrier north & west of Zesfontein Plain.^[98] Here foot track enters conglomeration rough mountains extending over 200 miles Northwards as far as Kunene (OMRONGA = Herero) River with only occasional intervals. From OKAPARA [NCAUS / !GAUS], leading horses at times, along stony water dry water courses and narrow ravines in mountains, Westwards 3 miles to broad rocky valley OKAHERE broad valley which runs to junction with HOANIB at what is called KALKVELD where some Hottentots are. Followed this valley in N.E.N. direction to small water hole also known as OKAHERE.^[99] … to small waterhole also called OKAHERE … or QUNQARUS [= ≠Nū-!narus] … Small permanent waterhole, sufficient for appr. 6 men and horses this time of year. …Old survey wagon track after detour from Zesfontein, touches here before proceeding N.W. to Sanitatas (Osata) thence across to KAOKO OTAVI (GAUKO OTAWI). …’^[100] – [at which on map he notes ‘once contemplated German Police Post and Govt. Reserve’^[101]] Old wagon road comes from Zesfontein west to NUNARUS thence in gradual curve W, N, & E to avoid mountains through and over which we had ridden and then comes at right angles W to E to GAUKO OTAWI across our path. This wagon road only practicable when water sufficient during summer.^[102]

[Oral history = Nathan ≠Ûina Taurob ('≠Ûideb')'s brother ≠Namre lived here in the past. Also ≠Ûideb, cf. nb. 1995-96 notes and images. (1. Christophine Daumû Tauros; 2. Michael |Amigu Ganaseb; also Nathan ≠Ûina Taurob in 1995, 1. Apr2014; 2. 131115; 3. 1995)]

Camps at Otjikakaneno^[103] (Kaoko Herero or Ovatshimba name) or Otjikondavirongo (Herero) [interesting that he distinguishes these]. Placed beacon at ‘prominent three peaked mountain S.W. of track crossing’. No inhabitants or agricultural use observed and no game seen.^[104] 

Much lightning and thunder and some rain during night. Notice nearly all horses bleeding at mouth owing to tenacious leeches getting on gums from Zesfontein water supply. No game at all see – Oorlog’s ovatshimba camped at river, however thought RHINOS were coming as we approached – these animals reported plentiful at OMHIBA mountains ahead. All maps available are misleading or meagre re Kaokoveld which is now principally Kaoko-Herero – latter know few of names mentioned. OTJIKAKANENO is a river but shown as part of OKOHERE (HARTMANS MAP) and not at all on KUNTZ map. Defence shows it as a spot on map. It is said to run west and join the ONGONGO or OWARUTHE R. (on which MUHONA KATITI is) – this latter river is probably what is shown on maps as HOARUSIB [the Otjikaneno flows west into the Gomatum / Gomadommi, which flows west into the Hoarusib / Owaruthe]. There are many obsolete Bushman or Hottentot terms which being also mispronounced ten to cover existing maps with useless words. Names used by present inhabitants north of Sesfontein should be adapted for practical purposes and some uniform method of native spelling as used in the Union NATIVE AFFAIRS would be advantageous.

Country travelled today no good at all for agriculture and roughness generally detracts from stock possibilities besides stretch without water.^[105] 

190817 at ‘Koandimwa’ (a small river and waterhole with permanent water^[106]) ‘Various Ovatshimba Hereros joined Oorlog’s party which on foot or riding oxen’ (Camped for night – Oorlog followers on oxen and on foot assembled with us^[107]) and in vicinity observes ‘[r]emains of summer cattle posts of nomadic Ovatshimba. No inhabitants now’^[108]. Also – ‘constant indications rhinoceros, viz. spoor and parallel lines dug in ground with horns or feet’^[109]. Every few hundred yards new signs of rhino^[110].

Near ‘Omhiba’ – observes ‘Country suitable for stock only. No transport or agriculture possible. No game. Veld burnt off everywhere’, plus tall palms and wild figs at Otuvare (from which Otuvare river flows to join OMGUNDA riv @ ONGANGA joining Hoarusib/ OWARUTHE) at at O-TSHU / OTJU junction) slightly to north of here^[111].

Old Martin, a missionary follower and most sensible adviser of Oorlog called latter chief and his various people together for Sunday service. Lt. Olivier, self, most of troop and ?? servants also sat about on large rocks near waterholes and listened to the service conducted in Herero and translated by my Batman [servant^[112]] Johannes. The text was connected with the crusade of justice and civilization amongst heathen savages; our trip into more or less unknown Kaokoveld and wild inhabitants being evidently and analogy. Oorlog and his fairly warlike crowd (listening most reverently and [?unreadable] to the discussion in these wild parts & our group in the vicinity, certainly made a striking scene which impressed me with the idea of the real good which might result from our mission & it is satisfactory to think everyone realises this. No natives at all seen anywhere since Zesfontein except distant fires at night of nomadic OVATJIMBA living on roots and occasional meat etc.^[113]

210817

re: springs on mountain route from Zesfontein - They are known to Herero type of natives who are only inhabitants of the greater portion KAOKOVELD. Many map names quite unknown.^[114]

At Otuvare (where good running water, enormous palms and fig trees etc.^[115]) he meets ‘friendly Ovatshimba headman KANDANGANDANGA moving with stock’ [On way saw several deserted OVATSHIMBA settlements – natives migrated when game including elephants and rhino driven out by grass fires. Saw one roan antelope. Headman KANDANGANDANGA reported with people this camp. Presented slaughter ox. Very friendly to Oorlog. Had meeting explained our system Govt. & Headman reported possession 7 muzzle loaders & 3 M.H. guns – Lt. Olivier after consultation decided had policy disarm friendly people reporting with firearms as this country very vast and we should not discourage such advances and away would be law-abiding people until general disarmament practicable. By giving this headman a certificate or pass he will be useful man to Govt.^[116]] and the messengers ‘previously despatched MUHONA KATITI’ report here^[117] [One of our messengers to MUHONA KATITI of 9/8/1917 joined us reporting that he & Hottentot (now gone to Zesfontein) presented our letter and message to MUHONA KATITI who not friendly to him as being follower of OORLOG but had sent KARAHUPA (then returned from Gauko OTAWI) & other headmen to see us at Zesfontein & had naturally met us on our way north to mountain path to-day. Messenger states MUHONA at present residing on kopje approaches to which by winding path through thick thorn bush that OTUVARE where we are is shown on KUNTZ’s map as OTUWARE… Saw various other OVATSHIMBA – friendly meetings.^[118]]  

From Otuvare he marches (his term, emphasising military character of expedition) north, Crosses old wagon track which goes north-west from Sesfontein to Sanitatas, then east to Kaoko Otavi following Omgunda Riv., i.e. following established routes through the area.

Karahupa and Kamikambi ‘of MUHONA KATITI’ meet him at OMGUNDA^[119].

220817

During night MUHONA’s messengers saw us and told remain with us. KARAPUPA (or KARAVAPA) & KAMIKAMBO (having missed us by side trail down not caught us up yet) – are said to be responsible for closing of route against native travellers & and had influence on MUHONA KATITI. Travelled 6 miles in N and slightly E direction to ONGONGO water on HOARUSIB or correctly OWARUTHE Rv. As known to KAOKO HERERO people except possibly a few HOTTENTOTS near SEA.^[120] 

At Ongongo ‘in sandy bed of main HOARUSIB River (or OWARUTHE as known to Kaoko Hereros = Ovatshimba, who constitute great majority of population over Nama or Hottentot speaking people living at Zesfontein and nearer coast)’. He observes ‘[s]everal old cattle posts of Muhona Katiti’s wandering Ovatshimba … though no attempts at agriculture anywhere’ (Manning map notes that Oorlog is at Ongongo in 1919).^[121]

ETANINO, 6kms further north – large waterhole with ‘[g]ood soil and grazing’^[122].

… valley or basin of OWARUTHE [Hoarusib] most suitable for stock and river gardens. MUHONA KATITI’s cattle posts have been all along here … Giraffe spore which resembles that of a small camel or very large ox poor – seen several times but how this defenceless game escaped armed hunters is a wonder. Heard chat some OVAMBOS selling guns were killed by OVATSHIMBA purchasers – Lt. Olivier inquiring but in any case good lesson to Ovambos or anyone else gunrunning. We are publishing fact that this country is coming under stricter control and traffic in guns etc. will be severely dealt with. This trip gives one a better general idea of conditions relating to N/W. Ovamboland & natives dealing with inhabitants thereof & southern ANGOLA.^[123] 

Manning’s map locates Nama and Damara-speaking people [‘klip, i.e. mountain, kaffirs’] westwards along the Hoarusib River[**include section of map]. The area to the south of the Hoanib River is something of a ‘blank space’.

At Otjiwero, 8 miles further northwest up Hoarusib he observes a ‘[l]ate settlement of Muhona Katiti’^[124].

Fine farms possible here though rather shut in by hills & inaccessible at present. Note. Have seen valuation of KAOKOVELD Land & Mining Com. & this divides country into three in order of value (1) EAST KAOKOVELD strip N. to S. (2) Centre strip N.S. (3) Lastly the W. portion bounded by OCEAN of least value being barren as a whole. The whole valley of OWARUTHE (HOARUSIB) is excellent in this Latitude of 18 at any rate. A couple of thousand cattle & the large type of goats & fat tailed sheep do very well here in MUHONA KATITI’s area during summer but now reported grazing in hills in Range a little further North where MUHONA at present settled.^[125] A native road is observed going alongside eastward tributary of OWARUTHE (OTHOMBOMBO and OMHAMA) towards Gauko Otawi.^[126]

230817 Marched from Otjiwero at 8.30am with all Oorlog’s people and others attaching themselves to him^[127].

[= mediated meeting between Oorlog and Muhona Katiti plus their ‘followers’]

‘Whole party including additions to OORLOG’s followers, marched N.N.W. out of Owaruthe [Hoaruseb] …’ to strong stream water on OTATHUMA River^[128]. Camped here at clump of palm trees [Close to a big kopje E of the water is MUHONA’s present collection of thatched & cow dung huts … At noon MUHONA KATITI arrived with about 50 or more followers including brothers VEHUKA MUNYONGWE & KAPUTE KARAHUPA (KARAVAPA) & headman Kamikambo coming up later.^[129] and ‘MUHONA KATITI arrived with brothers and number savage followers from the collection of straw and dung huts comprising his Kraal – which as usual with Ovatshimba pastoral people only temporary – near large single hill E. of OTATHUMA. Had long meeting with him regarding hostile dispute with Oorlog, disarmament, cattle fines etc.’^[130].

MUHONA apparently 60 years, slightly bald, hair or wool pushed to back of head like all OVATSHIMBA, is rather stout, has some defect in knee but able walk about & is fairly alert. His life has been full of adversities, intrigues & bloodshed by & against others. He looks a real savage in his sundry ornaments, grease, skin girdle etc. - none of his people wear clothes like those of Oorlog [emphasis added]. MUHONA has perhaps 150 families under him at different watering places with stock which is [?unreadable] but 2000 cattle & considerable small stock is probably what people have together. His relative a sturdy young savage called KOBINA spoke for MUHONA chiefly at meeting we had. Owing to suspicious nature of natives & their ignorance of real Administration apart from friction between them & Oorlog’s more civilized followers we had to be rather cautious in procedure to avoid excitement & probable conflict [emphasis added]. Lt Olivier being the officer actually in charge of expedition or patrol spoke as a rule in consultation with me. He explained our system of Government peaceful methods WARNED people against grass burning, gunrunning, elephant killing, disturbance of others rights etc. & against any further lawless acts such as killing of people, robbing of cattle. The feeling of uneasiness & chance of anything serious occurring having evidently worn off we explained that we Europeans as well as all tribes in Protectorate had to have firearms recorded by Govt. & that Oorlog was going to report every gun he had when we reached his place further NORTH therefore MUHONA and people must provide all theirs. There was a little talk & demur but eventually 25 M.H, type rifles & bandoliers were handing over & immediately put under guard. We pointed out Rooiland (elephant hunter said to have gone to MUALA’s country Ovamboland) had 3 good guns & several other people still had some & we could not get a proper record unless they produced. MUHONA said he only used a [?unreadable] but two guns had gone to Oorlog’s with messengers. It would be impossible to record exactly what recovered at this meeting as the subjects changed every few minutes & the Ovatshimbas certainly proved themselves masters at lying & confusing issues and it has to be remembered that whatever accusation was made they made numerous counter allegations which were in many instances no doubt as well founded particularly in regard to tribal fights & cattle stealing in & about Angola – they admitted perpetual vendetta. MUHONA said he left Angola because Oorlog drove him out [**cf. Ruben and Sophia oral history?] & he did not complain to Portuguese as they & Oorlog were all the same etc. He denied personally [?] causing Oorlog’s messenger to be beaten & robbed of horse & property & produced witnesses to show that an individual quarrel over an old ox dispute caused the trouble denied stopping road etc. Meeting somewhat reminiscent of those with late MANDUME but certainly under more favourable circumstances. The following points were more particularly dealt with as follows :-

(1) Accusation by MUHONA against Oorlog as to killing of people & theft of stock – Muhona states Oorlog & followers killed at EKUNJO§ N. of Kunene Rr. ANGOLA 10 people and following year at TSHABIKWA§ (AGOLA§) 10 men & 1 woman. This about five years ago. Later another 3 men killed ?? on Kunene Rr. Also stole MUHONA’s cattle at same time at MUHONGA RIVER (Note latter is in KAOKOVELD where OORLOG now lives at OTJANJANJASEMO or OTJITAMBI not far from SWAARTBOOI’s Drift & therefore many days march from other places mentioned CNM). ?? Oorlog MUHONA talks [it was] not Portuguese who ordered expeditions to be made but Oorlog himself. [Muhona] States saw Oorlog there no Portuguese soldiers there. OORLOG had guns [?unreadable] send witnesses there but unable to [?unreadable] there personally.

To Major MANNING Did not complain to Portuguese about OORLOG as they all the same. Driven out Oorlog fought back but killed no one & fled without any property except one post ?unreadable]. Counted & [?unreadable] Other tribal natives accompanied Oorlog. [?unreadable] could be pointed out in proper groups.

KARAHUPA (KARAPUPA or KARAVAPA) separately called states only 10 & 3 people killed [?unreadable] not know if OORLOG acted alone or with Portuguese officials.

OORLOG denies having done anything in ANGOLA against MUHONA’s people except 1 died order/under [?unreadable] & assistance of Portugues orders also MUHONA never near scene personally & MUHONA could not be robbed by him his benefactor & protector in early days MUHONA killed others & took cattle.

MUHONA later admitted having made [?unreadable] & as statements in any case unsupported hearsay & not relating to S.W.A. we rejected MUHONA’s statements and consider he should be made to feel his offence in giving Oorlog & especially Govt. so much trouble by paying some fine in cattle. In fact he made some such offer himself.

(II) Stopping mountain route between Oorlog’s place and Zesfontein way N-S. Muhona denies stopping route, states not strong enough in any case & report arises from timid[?] people.

KATENDA states was stopped at OTJIWERO on what said to have been MUHONA’s orders.

To Major Manning Muhona states – clothed natives not barred. Does not known why natives entry[?] near OUTJO say so.

Lt. Olivier questions MUHONA re ill treatment of Oorlog’s messenger & taking of property also horse & saddle MHUNA being headman. KONDIVA to show result of individual quarrel. The horse & saddle produced & handed back to OORLOG at once KONDIVA state gun piled with others in camp.

III Reported killed of German before WAR. No evidence available.

IV Alleged killing Portuguese trader. MUHONA states Portuguese trader with servants & OVAMBO headman came their country [?unreadable] Angola some years ago & much liquor drunk – some confusion occurred owing to a native thinking his brother taken as slave whereon firing commenced & Portuguese killed. Muhona states no wagon or oxen there but the Ovambo [??] divided up liquor & property. Native KASHASHA at GAUKO OTAWI knows details.

Note This query & II hardly our business at present anyhow.

(IV) Killing Erickson’s herdboy & theft 150 cattle Angola. MUHONA states Rooiland [see above, elephant hunter said to have gone to MUALA’s country Ovamboland] stole some cattle but Muhona sent them back with his own boys & Erickson’s replied that a cow & calf were still missing. Rooiland gone OVAMBOLAND (MUALA’s) with his 3 guns in search found [?]/

NB. We called in some Rooiland’s cattle as guarantee he will report to us. MEANTIME no complaint received from Portuguese or Erickson.

(V) Killing of KASUPI’s son (petty chief at OMBEPERA) native AMBASUBA called by MUHONA states one of Oorlog’s men had quarrel with deceased & in fight death occurred.

No complaint & no case at present.

Foregoing comprised main discussion but minor questions continued all day – two men have been detained to answer for recent cattle thefts & quarrels – The people themselves say they have had many disorders & chaos. It is thus that our Govt. is frequently compelled to take country under its control – simply for the sake of inhabitants already there but no doubt following is approximately correct in this instance also

“Take up the white man’s burden

And reap the old reward.

The hate of those ye better

The blame of those ye guard.”

Kept MUHONA & important people in our camp last night explaining that we had come so far to see him it was his duty to remain with us as Oorlog had done for months – our chief object really to prevent treachery etc. …^[131]

24-250817

Sunrise my watch 7.8am (Union). All quiet. Lt. Olivier agrees we must threaten [to] round us some stock & people to hurry up guns outstanding especially as these people sly & unreliable. They want some lesson to improve compliance with orders for best interests future administration. So far they live only on meat, grow no grain here, burn grass or stamp it out, shoot game, do no work in Protectorate & require radical changes soon as possible. Am opinion that MUHONA should only be left after guns taken & he pay some compensation besides probably acknowledging the more reliable OORLOG as Govt. Headman. It would have been premature before we heard both sides but this appears only solution for peace & good order throughout KAOKOVELD in which Oorlog & MUHONA most important sections but latter’s all that are savage, ignorant shameless whereas Oorlog’s lot a most intelligent people who would be very useful to preserving peaceful conditions & preventing gunrunning via Kunene or MUALA (Ovamboland). Lt. Olivier strongly approves & was going to recommend also. There is reason to believe that many of MUHONA’s people would be glad of this & that old MUHONA would agree especially when no longer able to move[?] from one grazing ground to another without slightest control hitherto. We therefore working to this end which when complete will eventually be submitted for sanction. A mule which MUHONA states he found near the Kunene has been taken over as derelict[?] property. There are many minor matters such as alleged old stock thefts from Portuguese RATO & British C Division in Angola Lt. Olivier keeping in view. We tell these Ovatshimba they should go to labour centres but it might almost be as well to suggest same to jackals.

In spare time endeavouring reconcile many inaccurancies on maps especially re: source & basin of OWARUTHE (HOARUSIB) River. Made rough sketch.^[132] 

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In afternoon had a general meeting attended by OORLOG, his headman KATJITOHA alias THOMAS and others also his missionary old MARTIN on one side & MUHONA KATITI with brothers VEHUKA, MUNGUNGWE & KAPUTE (Karapupa alias Karavapa away on message) and Headman KONDIVI, Sergt. Botha and others with Lt. Olivier & me. Lt. Olivier speaking in consultation with me reviewed position to date explaining that from now on everyone had to be law-abiding, no gun-running, going to Angola or Ovamboland without permission or roving about like devouring wild animals etc. but to live in peace under our protection which would be for all alike: that OORLOG had justified confidence & we intended recommending to Govt. to sanction our action in regarding him as spokesman & chief Headman for all natives living in Northern Kaokoveld – that disputes & offences or important matters should be referred to him for reference to Govt. although this would not necessarily do away with entity[?] of other sections or headmen such as MUHONA KATITI. The latter was asked if he & people agreed in all that had been said or would anyone like a pass to leave the country – MUHONA declared he placed himself entirely in Govt. hands & had friendly feelings towards Oorlog & would listen to him & in fact asked to be allowed to trek out of this part (OTATHUMA, OTJIWERO & places on OWARUTHE-HOARUSIB River) & go nearer to Oorlog on … ground about a day’s march south of KUNENE. There was no objection raised to this. We pointed out that MUHONA had caused much trouble & expense to our Govt. & we had shown him great consideration on this first occasion – he then produced 13 oxen, 10 cows, 4 calves, 1 bull & 25 sheep as a token of peace & apology – Lt. Olivier told him we accepted these for Govt. not ourselves. Would report fact to our superiors. In presence of all Oolog & MUHONA took hands & made peace – thereafter everyone gathered stones & made a beacon on east of Tathuma Rr. near a clump of big palms & opposite a large aapesdoorn[?] tree in the River bed where our camp has been. A large kopje lies east of this point also. As this is first time union troops or any other have been to this spot & as these two sections have made peace after many years strife we decided call the place UNION. MUHONA told OORLOG the white people he had known before were unlike us in character & look.^[133]

Puts ‘up beacon near palms and running water as token of peace, calling place “Union”’^[134]

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Sundry little lots of cattle brought along in adjustment of disputes. Lt. Olivier … settling these matters equitably to satisfaction all. We remained OTATHUMA “Union” camp since 23rd in order clear up matters thoroughly. Old MUHONA now on most friendly terms with Oorlog & everyone else. He volunteered information that a young follower whom we had detained for alleged cattle robbery is the one who with 3 others now fled north really stopped the roads & like some other young men was too much for MUHONA to manage. We are taking this man along as a lesson to him & others. Oorlog undertakes to assist MUHONA in rooting out any disturbers of peace. As it appears that all guns have not been handed in we told MUHONA we were confiscating the 30 handed in – MUHONA quite willing & seems more content to leave his future in our hands & friendly assistance of Oorlog. So my idea these various matters now come to a very satisfactory conclusion & the back of any troubles in KAOKOVELD broken. Kasupiu of OMBEPERA and a few other small headmen have not been seen yet but they are quiet & Oorlog states they are very friendly to him. Thirty guns from MUHONA is a high proportion of those in the country & incidental lots can be recovered from other people according [to] opportunity – in any case individual rifles harmless & often really necessary in this lion and other carnivora country. Pressure can be tightened all along west border OVAMBOLAND & I am already warning everyone about dealings there & will see chief MUALA on first opportunity & give them a shock if he has not already got it.

Left TATHUMA – “UNION” 9.30am after Oorlog’s missionary had given sermon on justice & forgiveness as exemplified by Govt. Travelled north on plain along winding stony path through thick thorn bush leavin g rocky kopje on our left … Saw signs of rhino & zebra but no animals… Two of MUHONA’s headmen accompanied us but MUHONA not fit to travel…

Packs & men’s clothing much torn by brushing against bush & many horses lost shoes… Have with us now rather strange force ranging from Europeans & Oolog’s men to wild OVATSHIMBA armed with bows & arrows & obsolete guns. Oorlog states Herero Rebellion would never have occurred had the Germans not constantly irritated the people & the climax coming when women were systematically interfered with & the chiefs consented to what they knew was a helpless war. Natives reported to Oorlog that they had seen a bull elephant near our camp just as we were leaving… [plus elephants digging for water in sandy river OMBUNDJE]
Oorlog is prohibiting killing of his game which now collecting in his area. He much disgusted to find OVATSHIMBA burnt grass after he went to see authorities in WINDHUK. This is said to be done as a rule to concentrate the game into small patches. Told Oorlog Govt. would support him in preserving game & veldt which much damaged by wild natives. He is being given a note of instructions by Lt. Olivier to protect & guide him. Kasupi sent messages of greeting to OORLOG which is sign of the latter’s popularity & good influence. [camps in sandy river ONGONGA]^[135]   

Travelling with Oorlog northwards to kloof spring at Otjirova, he notes ‘baobabs’ in mountains ranges, plus ‘[g]rass and bush burnt off by sweeping fires which alleged stated by wild mountain natives to concentrate game’^[136].

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Travelling through plains south of Otjijanjasemo River and the warm springs of Otjitambi he notes this is ‘Muhona Katiti’s grazing area before his flight from OMUHUNGA Rvr. To OTIWERO on approach of Oorlog from Angola’ [so, MK was displaced southwards by southwards movement of Oorlog].^[137] 

Near here he [Muhona] contemplated fighting Oorlog but desisted[?] on hearing Oorlog was preparing[?]. He had previously lived on MUHONGA Rr. & removed to OTJIWERO when news of Oorlog’s intention to come south of KUNENE & live near him was circulated. Case of “The wicked man fleeth when no man pursueth”. …^[138] 

Otjitambi = a large circular marsh on west bank of Otjijanjasemo River in which permanent warm springs rise opposite which on east side of river are fields [‘developed by Oorlog’s people’] and Oorlog’s settlement, with outlying kraal and best fields along Omuhonga River joining Otjijanjasemo River slightly to the north^[139]. He notes that the area is potentially accessible by vehicle only from east^[140].

Oorlog’s collection of huts & grass houses. He has some mealie & other fields. Almost 40 families of clothed & more civilized natives and about another 60 families of Ovatshimba in different oarts not to mention stray followers. This quite a valuable place but far from us … and inaccessible. … No traders been here & only been North of Border. No trace of any Europeans in this country north of Zesfontein. Oorlog giving us mealies for horses & even nails for shoes… I am anxious to get to Kunene & Great Cataract [Epupa?] but am without animals. Latter place important as affecting Neutral Zone but very mountainous N. of here & Cataract 41/2days distant.^[141]   

Greetings here are received by Manning ‘from old headman Kasupi and others’ and ‘Oorlog’s people assisted with grain, meat and even horsehoes. Etc.’^[142]. At Oolog’s Manning sends ‘telegram and personal diary Notes to Resident Commissioner’s office, Ovamboland, for transmission, Hoofd, Windhuk’^[143].

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Good agriculture possible here & all stock look very well. … a kind of dwarf ‘cream-or-tartar’ with white flowers is a feature of this place [= Pachypodium lealii?]. It is amusing to notice how cattle stampede as soon as a whiteman comes near them. A general meeting of surrounding people held – they respond to the call of Oorlog promptly & hold him in great respect & have followed him for many years through various vicissitudes. This man is on good terms with Portuguese, Angola Boers & many people of Union & he would make an exceptional[?] chief in charge of all KAOKOVELD people including KASUPI who recognizes him as such. It should be borne in mind that Oorlog is improving his settlement at OTJIJANJASEMO alias OTJITAMBI near MUHONGA Riv. & it would be a great pity & injustice of ground were sold under his feet to some speculator & I will recommend as Lt. Olivier is doing that Govt. consider some reserve for this man & his people. It would certainly pay the KAOKOVELD Co. to grant him title to this ground & recognize him as head of the native inhabitants also. He sent out for people to bring in corn .. for us and they very soon commenced in … near the MUHONGA river – many wild Ovatshimba with women following wearing strange finery with hide cloaks profusely ornamented with iron and copper studs. Lt. Olivier was considering a trip to Erickson’s store across Kunene by a day or two march but agrees we can hardly go there without previous notification to Portuguese & in view of distance & roughness of road to Kunene besides probable shortage men’s rations he decided to trek back to Zesfonetin via GAUKO OTAWI … He is giving me the excellent Sergt. Botha who anxious go with me to Kunene. I will leave to-morrow with oxen & give my horses a rest here.^[144]

Telegram sent to Whk

All well x our party left Zesfontein 18th August with Oorlog riding by direct mountain route due north x on way had meeting with MUHONA KATITI and KARAHUPA who handed in thirty rifles and paid compensation in cattle for trouble x All other sections peaceful and we consider satisfactory settlement arrived at x We now at Oorlog’s on MUHONGA River northern Kaokoveld x Patrol returning Zesfontein via GAUKO OTAWI x I follow after reaching KUNENE River which about two days NORTHEAST from Oorlog’s x no Europeans seen anywhere x sending this and our reports via ONDONGA office which about eight days distant. Signed.^[145]

Oorlog said he wished to show his gratitude to our Govt. by pledging himself to do everything required by Govt. in future by presenting some stock – we thanked him saying that Govt. gave justice & protection to all without payment but as he insisted Lt. Olivier arranged to take over some stock & place it with MUHONA’s fine & certain derelict cattle etc. all going Zesfontein. We told Oorlog we would bring his enlightened ways & assistance of various sorts to notice of our superiors. He also handed in a number of rifles & showed that he had complete control of a number of people constantly attaching themselves to him even from MUHONA KATITI’s section. He is certainly the outstanding figure in KAOKOVELD & makes a most useful man in this northern part where so many factions have to be considered. Oorlog asked me to see Portuguese authorities at Namakunde and ask them to allow his old father Tom Bechuana to come into Ovamboland where he would send for the family.^[146]

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Lieut. Olivier returns to Sesfontein via Kaoko Otavi, Manning continues with ‘excellent Sergt. P.J. Botha, 2nd M.C. and Ovatshimba carriers provided by Oorlog’ north along Omuhonga Riv. to Kunene, previously (1916) seen by him at Erickson’s drift^[147]. He notes ‘[g]round suitable for stock and agriculture’ and ‘[g]rass much burnt off everywhere’^[148].

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At Ombuko section of Omuhonga Riv (i.e. just before the river reaches the Kunene) he observes ‘[r]emains of Oolog’s old settlement on way down from Angola’ and ‘burnt off bush veldt’ near Kunene^[149]. Old elephant and rhino tracks followed^[150]. Reaches Kunene (Omronga River) around 30miles west of Swartbooi’s Drift / Tshimhaka, observing ‘some hippopotami and other old spoor seen though game apparently swept away by veld fires extending from near Outjo to and into Angola’^[151]. Shortage of supply etc. preclude following Kunene to Swaartbooi’s Drift, or [17] ‘to important political point still further Eastwards on Kunene and concerning Ovamboland Northern Boundary viz Great Cataract (Native name OMBUPA)’^[152]. At ENYANDE where the SHITANGE river joins Kunene he sends ‘Ovatshimba messengers to Jacob Erickson (son of late hunter explorer Erickson) at Muholo§, about 2 days march into Angola, for horsehoes, nails etc. and asking him privately to warn all natives against burning veld and such offences also give compliments to Portuguese Outpost beyond at OSHINJOU§’^[153].

He writes of ‘[s]mall part ex Damaraland Hereros with Ovatshimba carriers calling on way [to?] Oorlog from Angola, [who] related adventures since escaping German Troops, 13 years ago [i.e. 1904]: their allegations relate Government forcing them hopelessly take up arms through systematic ill treatment was terrible indictment against white race’^[154]. = so, sounds as though Hereros here had arrived from elsewhere in Namibia with Ovatshimba ‘carriers’ recruited from the area?

‘Two women said to have been killed by lions little while ago’ and they are ‘annoyed by mosquitos and wild dogs during night’^[155].

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Marched back seawards to Hamuhenge, said to be ‘most used and best crossing of Kunene’, observing ‘inaccurate intelligence’ of previous reports and maps which claim easy fordability in dry season^[156].

‘Lions heard Angola side during night..’ ^[157].

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‘spoke across [river] to Portuguese traders Almeida and Araujo … [and Manning goes] through main channel on horseback – water over saddle flaps – but halted near bank stating I could not go into Angola without notifying Portuguese Authorities. Traders stated Oorlog had taken them to authorities at Outjo[??] from where they sent back via Ovamboland when they previously entered Kaokoveld to claim payment of debts due by his people: that he honourable native and would now send payment. Told traders we objected to liquor selling and strict[??] about gunrunning: latter offence they said meant capital punishment in Angola. Stated saw four lions near their camp. They sleep on tree platforms fearing that rhinos may charge through camp on seeing fires at night. Much game as elephants evidently driven into Angola from Kaokoveld by terrible fires. Many signs of herds having been here formerly. Oorlog undertaken to particularly [19] preserve elephants as far as possible also suppress veld burning’^[158].

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Notes that ‘seawards the Kunene is little known nor frequented, there being few natives in its vicinity…’; Sergt. Botha shoots large crocodile at Hamuhenga crossing^[159].

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Jacon Erickson of Muholo§, Angola, visits them at island at Hamuhenge – ‘[h]e is coloured but has a white heart and good character[!!]. He brought with him old horse shoes, nails, and sundry supplies for which he unwillingly accepted payment. With him came his neighbours P. SCHOLTZ and the two Portuguese traders [see above]’^[160]. Information is gathered regarding southern Angola and Mpata settlement considered overcrowded and with lack of title causing dissatisfaction such that Europeans there are considering trekking to SWA, plus ‘[v]arious cattle and such claims represented to me by these people[??]’^[161].

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This stretch of Kunene is noted as ‘should some day be valuable for farming and such purposes’ and  journey southwards ‘to Oorlog’s’ commences^[162]. At junction of Ongaro and Omuhonga rivers, he notes ‘remains of liquor cases and bottles traded to Oorlog’s people by Portuguese’^[163].

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Further south he meets ‘messenger with note written [in] Kaoko OTAVI … by Lt Olivier advising all well and expecting [to] reach Zesfontein again with Troop in few days’. Reaches Otjitambi where ‘[r]eceived welcome’ and had ‘long general discussion with Oolog’ in which Oorlog ‘[s]tated [he had] already made arrangements [to] fully pay any debts due Angolan Europeans but repudiated liquor claims of Portuguese trader, who he alleged made sales against his advice and for exorbitant prices in cattle’^[164]. Oorlog states that Muhona Katiti has ‘settled peacefully’ [21] at Epembe with people since our meeting at OTATHUMA’ [230817] and ‘[m]ore guns been recovered by Oorlog who volunteered further disarm his own people whenever Government instructed’^[165].

Oorlog claims further that ‘[h]is advice and protection [are] sought by less civilized sections on whom he has good influence including his friend KASUPI of Ombepera, the oldest Ovatshimba headman whose area extends over whole N.W. portion Kaokoveld’, precipitating Manning’s decision to visit this area leaving telegram with Oorlog to dispatch to Whk via Ovamboland^[166].

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3. Journey no. 3 = Zesfontein to N-W Ovamboland border and Ondonga, 314 miles

[**To be contd.]

4. Oorlog and Muhona Katiti: Histories, disputes and settlement

[**To be contd.]

From 20 September to 8 October he journeyed from north-west Kaokoveld to the Atlantic Coast^[167].

1921

Manning writes a letter to the Royal Geographical Society in 1921 describing his travels and affirming in particular the assistance of local people.

He writes that he was:"particularly assisted by the comparatively few wild native inhabitants (viz Herero Bantu type and Hottentot-Bushman Nama type) of the remoter parts who not only guided me and explained matters along many hitherto unknown mountain routes, - frequently without even footpaths or the often useful elephant and other smooth game tracks through stones and bush, - but pointed out water in secluded kloofs and in beds of rivers which once flowed; abandoned settlements of previous generations, sacred piles of stones called OMBINDI SLIDE to which travellers added something conveniently picked up muttering a few words to propitiate the spirits; method of making fire with sticks and perpetuation of family fires wich [sic] were also regarded with reverence and as altars in case of sickness etc; they also pointed out occasional rhinoceroses, elephants, giraffes and so forth which were very abundant before that greatest of all exterminators of the finest varieties of game viz the European's firearm.”, NAN A450 Vol.4 1/28, Manning - Royal Geographical Society, London 19/12/1921, in Hayes op. cit. p.253.

to be contd.

***

[Tags: ‘wandering Bushmen’ [Kamanjab area]; veld fires; tsama melon; Sesfontein; Oorlog; Muhona Katiti; camels; elephant; applying for permission to farm outside Police Zone; springs; ‘farm natives’; Hoanib; projections of livestock capacity; rhino]