Bom Jesus shipwreck exhibit inaugurated in Oranjemund
The Bom Jesus Shipwreck Exhibit was officially inaugurated yesterday at the Jasper House Museum in Oranjemund, marking a significant milestone in the town’s history and future potential as a tourism destination.
Tonny Bessinger, general manager of OMDis Town Transform Agency, whose sole purpose is to proactively accelerate town transformation in Oranjemund, highlighted the discovery of the Bom Jesus shipwreck as a critical opportunity for Oranjemund. Bessinger described the find as not only an important piece of maritime history but also a catalyst for tourism and economic development. “This extraordinary find is not just a tale of maritime history; it represents a unique opportunity for us to unlock the potential for tourism expansion and to catalyse a transformative journey for our community."
Maritime history
The shipwreck, which dates back to 1533, is one of the oldest discoveries in sub-Saharan Africa and offers a unique insight into the era of global exploration and trade. Bessinger expressed a vision for Oranjemund to become a hub for maritime archaeology and history, suggesting that the exhibit could attract visitors eager to learn about the ship's historical significance. He emphasised the potential for the shipwreck to become a focal point for educational programs, guided tours, and possibly a maritime festival, all aimed at boosting local tourism and stimulating the town’s economy.
Deputy minister of education, arts, and culture, Faustina Caley, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the cultural and educational importance of the Bom Jesus shipwreck. She noted that the discovery provides an important link to Namibia’s past and reflects the broader historical context of global trade routes. “This incredible find, located off the coast of Oranjemund in Namibia, is more than just a shipwreck; it’s a window into the past, revealing stories of maritime exploration, trade, and adventure from centuries ago."
Promoting the site
Caley also emphasised her ministry’s commitment to preserving Namibia’s cultural heritage, stating that the exhibit would serve as a dynamic learning space for students, researchers, and the public. She stressed the need for collaboration among various sectors to ensure the preservation and promotion of the site.
“This is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration between the government, academia, the private sector, and civil society,” Caley added.
The event concluded with a call for the community to engage in the development of tourism around the shipwreck, with a focus on balancing economic growth with the preservation of the site’s historical integrity.
Tonny Bessinger, general manager of OMDis Town Transform Agency, whose sole purpose is to proactively accelerate town transformation in Oranjemund, highlighted the discovery of the Bom Jesus shipwreck as a critical opportunity for Oranjemund. Bessinger described the find as not only an important piece of maritime history but also a catalyst for tourism and economic development. “This extraordinary find is not just a tale of maritime history; it represents a unique opportunity for us to unlock the potential for tourism expansion and to catalyse a transformative journey for our community."
Maritime history
The shipwreck, which dates back to 1533, is one of the oldest discoveries in sub-Saharan Africa and offers a unique insight into the era of global exploration and trade. Bessinger expressed a vision for Oranjemund to become a hub for maritime archaeology and history, suggesting that the exhibit could attract visitors eager to learn about the ship's historical significance. He emphasised the potential for the shipwreck to become a focal point for educational programs, guided tours, and possibly a maritime festival, all aimed at boosting local tourism and stimulating the town’s economy.
Deputy minister of education, arts, and culture, Faustina Caley, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the cultural and educational importance of the Bom Jesus shipwreck. She noted that the discovery provides an important link to Namibia’s past and reflects the broader historical context of global trade routes. “This incredible find, located off the coast of Oranjemund in Namibia, is more than just a shipwreck; it’s a window into the past, revealing stories of maritime exploration, trade, and adventure from centuries ago."
Promoting the site
Caley also emphasised her ministry’s commitment to preserving Namibia’s cultural heritage, stating that the exhibit would serve as a dynamic learning space for students, researchers, and the public. She stressed the need for collaboration among various sectors to ensure the preservation and promotion of the site.
“This is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration between the government, academia, the private sector, and civil society,” Caley added.
The event concluded with a call for the community to engage in the development of tourism around the shipwreck, with a focus on balancing economic growth with the preservation of the site’s historical integrity.
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