26/06/2026
On Monday, 22 June 2026, we gathered in Usakos for a truly significant moment: the official reception of a portion of the Usakos Railway Workers’ Collection, returned home after more than a century.
The occasion was graced by the Governor of the Erongo Region, Hon. Nathalia /Goagoses, who commended the Bern History Museum (BHM) for initiating this repatriation process of their own volition, an important and commendable step in the ongoing work of restitution and redress.
But what followed the reception is what made this moment even more powerful.
Over the next two days, community members were invited to engage directly with the returned objects. Through oral history interviews, they shared memories, reflections, and emotions, speaking not only about what these objects are, but what they mean.
This process reminded us that repatriation is not only about the physical return of cultural belongings, but it is also about restoring relationships, reclaiming narratives, and making space for communities to see themselves in their own histories again.
It was a deeply moving and grounding way to receive the collection, and an important step in ensuring that these objects are not only preserved, but understood, contextualised, and lived with.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the people of Usakos, our partners at BHM, the Usakos Museum Advisory Committee, the Usakos Town Council, and all those who continue to hold and guide this work with care.
