The repatriation of cultural artefacts and human remains is an essential aspect of restorative
justice. These items, stolen during the colonial genocide, hold profound cultural, spiritual,
and historical significance for the Ovaherero people.
Their continued retention in foreign institutions perpetuates the legacy of dispossession and denies us the right to reclaim and preserve our heritage.
Recent initiatives, such as those undertaken by the Grassi Museum in Leipzig and
the provincial government of Saxony, provide commendable examples of collaborative and
transparent efforts to repatriate stolen cultural items to their rightful communities.
These actions highlight the importance of acknowledgment, respect, and meaningful restitution in
addressing historical injustices.
We emphasize that the repatriation process must not merely end with the return of these
items. It must include measures to equip our communities with the necessary resources,
facilities, and expertise to ensure the proper care, preservation, and safekeeping of these
artefact’s.
